Jax returned to the Nightveil kitchen shortly before six in the morning.
Some things never changed.
It didn't matter whether he was staying in a modest inn, a royal palace, or the mansion of one of Moondrip's wealthiest families. If there was a kitchen available, he was going to use it.
The Nightveil cooks had learned this rather quickly.
"Good morning, Lord Darquebane," one greeted him.
"Morning. And just Jax is fine."
"Of course, Lord Jax."
I have another Warden in my kitchen.
Close enough.
Within minutes, he'd commandeered a portion of the kitchen, and the familiar sounds of sizzling butter, chopping vegetables, and crackling bacon filled the room.
Tomorrow was his wedding.
His fifth wedding, to his sixth bride.
He still found that number rather remarkable.
A year ago, he hadn't even known this world existed. Now he was marrying a succubus in a demonkin city, had five wives who somehow managed to keep him constantly entertained, and owned enough businesses that he occasionally had trouble remembering all of them.
Life was strange.
And he wouldn't trade it for anything.
"Something smells wonderful."
Jax glanced over his shoulder.
Nyxian stood in the doorway wearing one of his shirts, her dark red hair tousled from sleep.
"Morning, beautiful."
"Good morning, future husband."
"Technically, I'm already your husband after you imprinted on me our first night."
"Yes, but tomorrow you become my actual husband. It's an important distinction."
She crossed the kitchen, slipped her arms around his waist, and kissed him long enough to make him forget about the bacon.
"Careful," he murmured. "You're going to burn breakfast."
"Then stop making breakfast."
"That seems counterproductive."
"Depends on what you're hungry for."
He laughed.
"You're impossible."
"And tomorrow you'll be legally obligated to put up with me."
"Pretty sure I've already been doing that."
Nyxian grinned.
"And you're getting so good at it."
By the time breakfast was served, the Nightveil and Darquebane families had gathered around the dining table.
Llandra sat beside Zee, discussing something quietly. Bunny had already discovered the bacon. Pixelle and Lexi, both in their human-sized forms, were debating which pastries deserved the most attention.
Velmora sat at the head of the table, looking every inch the elegant matriarch, with Rikard beside her. Seralya and Josric sat opposite one another, while Nyxian claimed the seat nearest Jax.
Corwin moved discreetly around the room, ensuring everyone had everything they needed.
"So," Velmora announced, setting down her cup. "Today is the final day of preparations."
"Tomorrow!" Nyxian practically bounced in her chair.
"Yes, darling. Tomorrow."
"I'm getting married!"
"We're aware," Sera said dryly. "You've only reminded us seventeen times since breakfast began."
"Eighteen!"
"Of course."
Velmora smiled. "The gardens are being prepared, the flowers have been arranged, and the household staff has everything under control. Sera and I still need our fittings, but the Vixens' dresses are finished."
"Except the bride," Llandra observed.
"Nobody has ever had that under control," Zee replied.
Nyxian beamed. "That's why you love me."
"One of the reasons," Jax said.
Sera glanced around the table. "Have you decided who's standing with you, little sister?"
Nyxian's smile softened. "Actually, yes."
Sera nodded toward the Vixens. "I assume you've already chosen your bridesmaids. I'd be honored to join them, of course."
"You are not going to be one of my bridesmaids."
Sera blinked. "Oh, why not?"
"My Matron of Honor."
Sera began speaking, "I can stand at the back, and be the last one if you will have....."
The group looked at her.
"What?"
"What do you mean what? I just asked you to be my Matron of Honor."
"Me?"
"You."
"But... you have Llandra. And Zee. And all the others."
"And I have you."
Sera opened her mouth, then closed it.
Nyxian reached across the table and took her sister's hand.
"We've fought about practically everything since we were children. You stole my clothes. I ruined your makeup. I told Mother when you snuck out. You told Father when I brought girls home."
Rikard looked up. "Wait. What girls? Her friends?"
"Not now, Father," Sera said quickly.
"We've argued, screamed at each other, and probably driven Mother halfway to insanity."
"Halfway?" Velmora murmured.
"But you're my sister, Sera. Tomorrow is one of the most important days of my life, and I want you beside me."
Sera's eyes glistened.
"Oh, Nyx..."
The sisters rose and embraced.
For once, neither had a clever remark.
Velmora discreetly dabbed at one eye, while Rikard smiled proudly.
Naturally, Pixelle couldn't leave it alone forever.
"So, does being Matron of Honor mean she gets to boss Nyxian around?"
Sera pulled back, smiling.
"Oh, absolutely."
"Don't get carried away," Nyxian warned.
"Too late. I have a title now."
"Mother!"
Velmora smiled. "Darling, you gave her authority. You must live with the consequences."
Jax chuckled.
"Welcome to management."
Breakfast was barely finished when Rikard approached Jax with Josric beside him.
"Jax, my boy. We have plans for you today."
"Should I be concerned?"
"Not at all," Josric assured him. "Drinks. Darts. A proper celebration."
"Sounds good."
"Excellent!" Rikard clapped his hands. "We'll leave after the ladies depart."
Nyxian looked suspicious.
"Where are you taking him?"
"For a respectable afternoon of masculine companionship."
Velmora slowly turned toward her husband.
"Rikard."
"Yes, darling?"
"You're taking him to the Velvet Eclipse, aren't you?"
"Well, naturally. It's the finest establishment in the city."
Velmora sighed.
"At least I know where to send someone when you become incapable of walking."
"Such confidence in me, my love."
"Twenty-seven years of experience, sweetheart."
Sera looked at Josric.
"And you?"
"I'll be perfectly responsible."
She stared.
"Reasonably responsible, with only a hint of irresponsibility," he amended.
"Better."
Nyxian leaned toward Jax.
"Have fun, beloved. And try not to break any hearts."
"I'll do my best."
She glanced at her mother.
"He's going to break hearts."
"Almost certainly," Velmora agreed.
Jax looked between them.
"What?"
"Nothing, darling," Nyxian said sweetly.
The women departed shortly afterward.
Nyxian wore a bright sash across her chest proclaiming BRIDE TO BE.
Pixelle had suggested adding Approach At Your Own Risk underneath.
Nyxian had seriously considered it.
The moment they reached Moondrip's shopping district, the attention began.
"Lady Nyxian!"
"You're getting married?"
"Congratulations!"
"Welcome home!"
Shopkeepers hurried outside with flowers and sweets. Several women stopped to admire her sash, and within minutes Nyxian was practically holding court in the middle of the street.
Velmora watched with unmistakable pride.
"She certainly knows how to make an entrance."
"She always has," Sera replied.
A well-dressed merchant approached.
"Lady Velmora, your daughter is absolutely radiant."
"Naturally, darling. She inherited my beauty."
The merchant laughed. "And such confidence!"
"That too."
Sera rolled her eyes.
"Mother, have you ever considered practicing modesty?"
Velmora looked genuinely offended.
"Excuse me?"
"Modesty. It's a wonderful quality."
"My dear, if there were a contest to determine the most modest woman in the world, I would win. Hands down. No contest."
She paused dramatically.
"They would erect statues celebrating my modesty."
Nyxian burst out laughing.
"Enormous statues, Mother?"
"Naturally. Modesty deserves recognition."
Bunny nodded thoughtfully.
"I'd visit those statues."
"I'd charge admission," Pixelle added.
Lexi smiled. "And sell miniature replicas."
Velmora looked delighted.
"See? These girls understand my modesty."
Across the city, Jax entered the Velvet Eclipse with Rikard and Josric.
The establishment was already busy. Soft music drifted through the elegant lounge, and a staircase curved toward the upper floors, where the business offered considerably more private accommodations.
Jax knew exactly what kind of establishment Velmora operated. He'd toured it yesterday and had been impressed by how well it was managed.
What he hadn't anticipated was the reaction to his arrival.
A succubus carrying a tray stopped in midstep. Another turned from the bar. A third looked up from a conversation with a guest.
For a brief moment, several women sensed something in the air.
Warmth. Strength. Confidence.
And beneath it, an unmistakable energy that made their instincts take notice.
One succubus leaned toward another.
"Do you feel that?"
"The human?"
"Gods, yes."
The first woman watched Jax smile at something Rikard said.
"Oh, my goddess, I hope he's here for the deluxe package."
Meanwhile, Jax was examining the bar.
"Looks like you've got a pretty good variety."
Rikard beamed. "Velmora insists on excellence. And she lets me drink here whenever I like. No charge."
Jax shook his head.
"Not today. This one's on me. Full price for everything. Put it all on my tab."
"But Velmora owns the place."
"Exactly. I'm not taking advantage of my future mother-in-law's business."
Josric smiled. "Very generous."
"Besides, we're celebrating. My treat."
Rikard clapped him on the shoulder, then turned toward the room.
"Ladies and gentlemen! This young man is getting married tomorrow, and we've come to drink, play darts, and have a magnificent afternoon!"
Several employees exchanged interested glances.
One approached with a practiced smile.
"A bachelor party? How delightful. Would the gentleman care for some company?"
Jax smiled politely.
"Appreciate it, but I'm married."
The woman blinked.
"But you're getting married tomorrow?"
"I am."
"And you're already married?"
"Yes. To five women, actually."
She stared, then slowly smiled.
"Well, sweetie. Aren't you ambitious?"
Jax laughed.
"You have no idea."
Their first drinks arrived shortly afterward.
Jax recognized the bottles immediately.
Pixie Mead and Fairy Cider.
"Already selling these?" he asked the bartender.
"Are you kidding? We can barely keep them stocked. Yesterday was our biggest premium liquor day in months. Maybe ever."
Jax smiled.
"Glad to hear it."
"Lady Velmora says we have an exclusive agreement for six months."
"That's right."
"Well, whoever came up with these drinks deserves a medal."
Josric raised his glass.
"To Jax!"
Rikard joined him.
"To Jax!"
Jax lifted his own.
"To good business."
They drank.
Pixie Mead brought an unmistakable warmth and happiness. Conversation came easily, laughter followed, and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves a little more than usual.
Fairy Cider added a different kind of warmth, heightening romantic interest without robbing anyone of their judgment.
Jax had disabled his System's anti-poison protection before drinking. He wanted to enjoy himself, and he did.
The drinks tasted excellent, and a pleasant buzz gradually settled over him.
Rikard and Josric, however, seemed determined to sample everything on the menu.
Back in the shopping district, the dressmaker had prepared a private fitting room for Velmora and Seralya.
The Vixens' dresses were already finished, leaving them free to offer opinions, admire accessories, and enjoy the afternoon.
While Velmora discussed alterations with the seamstress, Sera stood before a mirror wearing her Matron of Honor dress.
Nyxian approached.
"Well?"
Sera turned.
"What do you think?"
"I think you look beautiful."
Sera studied her sister.
"You really meant it, didn't you?"
"Meant what?"
"Wanting me beside you tomorrow."
Nyxian smiled.
"Of course I did."
For all their arguments and all the years she'd spent worrying about Nyxian, this was a good day.
At the Velvet Eclipse, Rikard had rediscovered darts.
"Jax! Come here! Josric claims he's better than me."
"I am better than you," Josric replied.
"Prove it!"
Jax smiled.
"Mind if I join?"
The first game ended quickly.
Jax won.
The second lasted slightly longer.
Jax won again.
By the fourth game, Rikard was staring at the board suspiciously.
"You're doing something."
"Maybe I should retire and let you two play against each other."
"No! I just got warmed up."
"I'll play left handed."
Josric laughed.
"So now we have a fighting chance."
Rikard narrowed his eyes.
"Left-handed?"
Jax shrugged, switched hands, and won again.
Josric stared.
"That's ridiculous."
"Good hand-eye coordination."
A succubus standing nearby applauded.
"That was incredible!"
"Thanks."
She approached and rested her hand against his chest.
"You're full of surprises, aren't you?"
"Occasionally."
Her fingers lingered.
Jax recognized the flirtation but thought little of it.
Friendly woman. Good customer service.
The succubus, meanwhile, was having an entirely different conversation with herself.
Please ask me upstairs. I will waive the fee. Please. Please. Please.
Jax turned toward the dartboard.
"Another round?"
She nearly groaned.
"Absolutely!" Rikard announced.
And the afternoon continued.
By early afternoon, the Velvet Eclipse had acquired a new attraction.
Jax Darquebane.
At least ten women had taken a particular interest in him.
Some were employees, others patrons, but all were fascinated by the handsome human who seemed entirely comfortable surrounded by succubi.
They laughed at his jokes, complimented his appearance, asked about his travels, and found excuses to touch his arm, chest or shoulder.
Jax recognized the attention for what it appeared to be.
Professional flirtation.
They're good at what they do, he thought. Velmora runs a quality establishment.
The women were becoming increasingly frustrated.
At a nearby table, three succubi watched him return to the dartboard.
"You know what's unfair?" one asked.
"What?"
"Half the men who come through those doors spend fortunes trying to convince us they're irresistible. We smile, flatter them, and tell them exactly what they want to hear."
She watched Jax throw another bullseye.
"Then this man walks in, and for once I don't have to pretend."
Another woman sighed.
"He's been here for hours. He's paid for every drink, listened to our problems, and hasn't asked a single one of us upstairs."
"I know. Isn't he wonderful?"
"It's infuriating!"
The third succubus rested her chin in her hands.
"The one man I'd happily spend an evening with for free, and he's marrying the boss's daughter tomorrow."
"Naturally."
They sighed together.
The women's afternoon continued with beauty treatments, final wedding arrangements, and considerably more attention than Nyxian had anticipated.
She loved every second.
At one point, a group of young demonkin women recognized her outside a salon.
"Lady Nyxian! Is it true you're marrying a human?"
"Absolutely!"
"Is he handsome?"
Nyxian grinned.
"Devastatingly."
Velmora smiled proudly.
"She has excellent taste. Another quality inherited from her mother."
Sera groaned.
"Mother."
"What?"
"Nothing."
By late afternoon, the preparations were complete. The dresses had been collected, the jewelry was ready, and Nyxian had received enough congratulations to satisfy even her considerable appetite for attention.
Almost.
Then a young employee from the Velvet Eclipse arrived.
"My lady," she said, bowing to Velmora. "I'm terribly sorry to disturb you, but Lord Rikard and Lord Josric may require assistance returning home."
Sera closed her eyes.
"Oh, no."
Velmora sighed.
"How bad?"
The employee hesitated.
"They're having a wonderful time."
"That bad?"
"They've begun singing, my lady."
Nyxian burst out laughing.
"Father?"
"I'm afraid so."
Velmora rubbed her forehead.
"Very well. We'll collect them."
The employee bowed and departed.
Notably, she had said absolutely nothing about Jax.
That omission was entirely deliberate.
By the time Velmora and the others arrived at the Velvet Eclipse, the establishment had grown considerably louder.
A traditional Moondrip drinking song echoed through the lounge, performed with extraordinary enthusiasm and very little concern for musical accuracy.
Unfortunately, the two loudest voices belonged to men Velmora and Seralya knew very well.
"Oh, dear," Velmora murmured.
Sera stopped beside her.
"Please tell me that isn't Josric."
Another verse erupted from the lounge.
"I'm afraid it is, darling."
"And Father?"
"Apparently providing accompaniment."
They rounded the corner and discovered Rikard and Josric seated together, arms draped across each other's shoulders, surrounded by employees who were happily singing along.
Rikard spotted his wife.
"VEL!"
His face lit up.
"MY BEAUTIFUL VEL!"
Velmora shook her head, although she couldn't suppress her smile.
"Hello, sweetheart."
"EVERYONE! THAT IS MY WIFE!"
Several patrons applauded.
"ISN'T SHE BEAUTIFUL?"
"Yes, Lord Rikard!" someone called.
"THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WOMAN IN THE WORLD!"
Velmora placed a hand over her heart.
"Well, at least his eyesight hasn't suffered."
Josric finally noticed Seralya.
"SERA!"
She covered her face.
"Oh, gods."
"I LOVE YOU!"
"Yes, darling. I know."
"MORE THAN ANYTHING!"
"I know that too."
Rikard attempted to stand, discovered that his legs were less cooperative than expected, and settled for taking Velmora's hand.
His expression softened.
"Thank you, Vel."
She blinked.
"For what, sweetheart?"
"For loving me. For choosing me. And for... you know."
Velmora understood.
The ritual.
The one they had decided would not take place.
She leaned down and kissed his forehead.
"Oh, Rikard."
Nearby, Josric had taken both of Seralya's hands.
"I'm glad you are in my life" he told her.
Sera touched his cheek.
"So am I, sweetheart."
"I love you."
"I know."
For all their embarrassment, neither woman could remain irritated. Their husbands were drunk, ridiculously drunk, but they were also happy, affectionate, and grateful.
And after the tension surrounding the old compatibility ritual, that gratitude meant something.
It was Llandra who first noticed Jax.
"Well," she murmured. "That explains why he hasn't come to help."
Nyxian followed her gaze.
Across the lounge, Jax sat comfortably at a large table, a half-finished glass of Fairy Cider beside him.
Approximately ten beautiful women surrounded him.
One succubus sat close enough that her thigh touched his. Another rested a hand on his forearm, while a third leaned over his shoulder.
Jax hadn't noticed his wives entering.
He was too busy talking.
Sera stared.
Then turned toward Nyxian.
"Are you not the slightest bit concerned?"
"About what?"
"Your future husband. In a brothel. Surrounded by women who are practically climbing into his lap."
Nyxian studied the scene.
Then sighed.
"Actually, I'm a little disappointed."
Sera blinked.
"Disappointed?"
"Look at them. All those beautiful succubi, and he's just sitting there."
Zee tilted her head.
"What's he talking about?"
The group approached quietly, remaining outside the circle of women surrounding Jax.
And then they heard him.
"...so buying something expensive doesn't automatically make it an asset."
A succubus beside him frowned thoughtfully.
"But I've wanted that carriage for months."
"Nothing wrong with wanting a carriage," Jax replied. "It's your money. Spend it however you like. But if you're calling it an investment, you need to ask whether it's going to make you money."
"Well, no. I just want something beautiful to ride around town in."
"Then it's a personal expense. You've got the purchase price, the animals, their feed, maintenance, repairs, and somewhere to keep it."
She considered that.
"I hadn't thought about all of that."
"Most people don't. Now, what if you bought that same carriage with two or three friends?"
"Together?"
"Sure. You work eight-hour shifts, right? That's eight hours when you can't use it, and another eight when you're probably sleeping. Why let it sit around doing nothing?"
Another succubus leaned forward.
"What would we do with it?"
"Deliveries. Transportation. Hire a driver to move goods between merchants. If it brings in more money than it costs to operate, now you've got an income-producing asset."
The first woman stared at him.
"So the carriage could pay for itself?"
"Exactly. And once it does, you could use the profits to buy another one. Or invest in a rental property. Or buy a share in a business."
Jax smiled.
"Eventually, you might have enough income coming in that you don't have to work unless you want to."
Several women exchanged looks.
"We could own a business together," one whispered.
"That's the idea," Jax replied.
He took another sip of Fairy Cider.
Behind them, Zee closed her eyes.
"Oh, for the love of..."
Llandra looked toward her.
"What?"
"He's giving sex workers financial advice."
Llandra listened for another moment.
"Apparently."
"At his bachelor party."
"Yes."
"Surrounded by beautiful women."
"That does seem to be the situation."
Zee shook her head.
"I am so disappointed in my husband."
Nyxian folded her arms.
"Me too. Look at them! They're practically begging for his attention, and he's explaining how to make money with a carriage."
Llandra sighed.
She paused.
"I confess, even I'm disappointed."
Zee turned toward her.
"You too?"
"Under the circumstances, yes."
Pixelle stared at Jax with an expression of profound disbelief.
"Do you have any idea how many iPoints we could have earned?"
Sera turned.
"What are iPoints?"
Pixelle froze.
"Nothing."
"What?"
"Never mind. Forget I said anything."
Sera looked toward Nyxian.
Nyxian smiled innocently and shrugged like she didn't know, either.
Velmora stood beside Seralya, watching the scene unfold.
She had expected jealousy.
Perhaps irritation.
Instead, Jax's wives seemed genuinely disappointed that he hadn't taken advantage of the attention being offered.
And none of them appeared to be pretending.
One of the succubi surrounding Jax glanced toward the approaching group.
Her eyes widened.
"Nyxian?"
Another woman turned.
"Nyxian Nightveil?"
Nyxian grinned.
"Hello, ladies!"
Several women immediately rose from their seats.
"NYXIAN!"
Jax finally looked up.
Before he could say anything, the succubi hurried toward his future bride.
There were hugs, laughter, and excited greetings.
"Look at you!"
"You're back!"
"You're getting married tomorrow!"
Nyxian laughed.
"I am!"
One woman held her at arm's length.
"You lucky little devil!"
"I know!"
"Your future husband is gorgeous!"
"I know!"
"He's charming!"
"I know!"
"And he actually listens when we talk!"
"Well, of course he does."
Another leaned closer.
"Nyxian, darling, we have to ask. Is he as handsome without his clothes?"
Nyxian looked toward Jax.
Then smiled wickedly.
"Better, actually."
Several women sighed.
Nyxian wasn't finished.
"He's the reason I'm limping today."
She took several exaggerated steps, favoring one leg so dramatically that she looked as though she'd survived an unfortunate encounter with a runaway carriage.
The succubi stared.
One began fanning herself.
Another whispered, "That is so unfair."
A third looked toward Jax.
"Does he have a brother?"
"Unfortunately, no."
"Tragic."
Jax shook his head.
"You're all ridiculous."
Nyxian blew him a kiss.
"Love you too, darling!"
One of her old friends leaned closer.
"Nyxian, would you be open to a little complimentary attention for your future husband?"
Nyxian's eyes lit up.
"What kind?"
The succubus smiled.
"The sort we normally charge quite a lot for."
Several others nodded enthusiastically.
"Absolutely free."
"Not a single coin."
"We'd consider it a wedding present."
Nyxian gasped.
"YES! But I get to watch."
The women practically cheered.
"Really?"
"Of course!"
Jax raised a hand.
"Hey, don't I get a say in this?"
Nyxian turned toward him.
"NO!"
"Well, too bad. Because the answer is no."
Several women groaned.
Nyxian pouted.
"But beloved..."
Jax pointed toward his glass.
"You ladies are going to have to deal with me and this Fairy Cider on your own."
There was a pause.
Then ten succubi sighed.
And six Vixens joined them.
Jax looked around.
"Seriously? All of you?"
Sixteen disappointed expressions greeted him.
Bunny shrugged.
"Well, they did offer nicely."
Velmora watched the exchange in fascination.
She looked at Llandra, Zee, Bunny, Pixelle, and Lexi.
Then at her daughter.
"Nyxian."
"Yes, Mother?"
"Are you absolutely certain none of these women are part succubus?"
Nyxian blinked.
Then laughed.
"Mother, we're Vixens."
Velmora considered that answer.
"Well," Velmora murmured. "That certainly explains... something."
Sera stared at her sister.
"I don't think I'll ever understand your marriage."
Nyxian grinned.
"Marriages. Plural."
Sera sighed.
"Of course."
Getting Rikard and Josric home proved considerably more difficult than getting them drunk.
Neither wanted to leave.
Rikard insisted he needed to finish one more song. Josric insisted they hadn't properly completed the previous one.
Velmora solved the problem by kissing her husband.
He immediately forgot about singing.
Seralya employed a similar strategy.
Josric became remarkably cooperative.
Jax approached the bar to settle the bill.
The waitress glanced at the account, then smiled.
"Lord Darquebane, there's no need. Lady Velmora has always allowed Lord Rikard and Lord Josric to drink here without charge."
Jax shook his head.
"Not today."
"But, my lord..."
"I told you when we arrived. Full price. Every drink, every bottle, everything."
"Lady Velmora may object."
"Then tell her I insisted."
He paid the entire amount and added a generous tip.
The waitress stared at the coins.
"Oh!"
Jax smiled.
"Thanks for taking care of us. You ladies were great."
A dozen hearts broke at once. Women were fanning themselves as he left, eyes glued to his backside as he walked out the door.
The waitress he paid, looked down at all of the coins he had left for the staff.
"Oh, I like him even more than the Nightveil men."
"Why?"
"He tips big."
By the time everyone returned to the Nightveil estate, evening had settled over Moondrip.
Rikard leaned heavily against Velmora, while Josric had his arm around Seralya.
Both were still smiling.
"Vel," Rikard murmured.
"Yes, sweetheart?"
"You're beautiful."
"I know, darling."
"Have I told you lately?"
"Several times today."
"Not enough."
Velmora's expression softened.
Josric turned toward Sera.
"I missed you."
"You were only gone a few hours."
"Still missed you."
He kissed her cheek.
Sera laughed quietly.
"You ridiculous man."
"Your ridiculous man."
"Yes," she whispered. "Mine."
Velmora and Seralya exchanged a glance.
Their husbands had spent the afternoon drinking, singing, and telling anyone who would listen how much they loved their wives.
And beneath the intoxicated affection was genuine gratitude that the old compatibility ritual had been canceled.
Velmora slipped an arm around Rikard.
"Come along, darling. I think you need to lie down."
"Will you stay with me?"
"Of course."
Seralya took Josric's hand.
"And you, sweetheart. I believe we have some catching up to do."
Josric brightened.
"Really?"
"Really."
The two women led their husbands upstairs to recover.
Jax watched them go.
"Well, at least they're getting some rest."
Nyxian looked at him.
"Rest?"
Pixelle started laughing.
Jax sighed.
"What?"
"Nothing, beloved."
Dinner was served shortly afterward.
Velmora, Rikard, Seralya, and Josric did not attend.
The Nightveil cooks had prepared an excellent meal, and Jax and the Vixens gathered around the dining table.
Pixelle and Lexi remained in their human-sized forms, both thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to appreciate a full meal.
Bunny took one look at Jax and laughed.
"You smell like a brewery."
"Had a good afternoon."
Pixelle pointed her fork at him.
"You went drinking without us?"
"It was my bachelor party."
"That's not an excuse!"
Lexi smiled.
"How much did you drink?"
"Enough to enjoy myself."
Nyxian grinned.
"Well, I suppose that settles it."
Jax looked at her.
"Settles what?"
She smiled sweetly.
"Bring out the keg."
Jax laughed.
"Seriously?"
"Absolutely."
Pixelle cheered.
"YES!"
Bunny raised her hand.
"I second that."
Zee shook her head.
"We have a wedding tomorrow."
"And?" Nyxian asked.
Llandra smiled.
"One drink won't hurt."
Pixelle grinned.
"If I have to limit myself to only one, then I'm grabbing a bucket."
Within minutes, the keg of Pixie Mead they'd kept in the carriage was brought into the dining room.
The evening became a celebration of its own.
They enjoyed the meal, shared stories, and toasted tomorrow's wedding. Nyxian insisted on hearing every embarrassing detail of her father's afternoon, and Jax happily obliged.
By the time the last plates were cleared, everyone was smiling.
Later that evening, as the household began preparing for bed, Corwin approached the group.
He bowed respectfully.
"Young Mistress Nyxian."
Nyxian turned.
"Yes, Corwin?"
"Tradition holds that it is bad luck for a groom to see his bride on their wedding day before the ceremony. If you share Lord Darquebane's bed tonight, he will naturally see you when you wake tomorrow morning. Perhaps you would prefer to spend the night in your childhood chambers."
Nyxian stared at him.
Then smiled.
"Can it, Corwin."
The butler remained perfectly composed.
"I beg your pardon, young mistress?"
"I'm going to jump my future husband tonight until he gives up and calls me his master, or I pass out in pleasure."
Silence.
Corwin studied her.
Then one corner of his mouth rose in the faintest smile.
"As you wish, young mistress."
He bowed and walked away.
Jax stared after him.
"Was he smiling?"
Nyxian grinned.
"He practically raised me. He's seen worse."
She took his hand.
"Come along, beloved."
"Should I be worried?"
"Very."
Much later, Nyxian lay curled against Jax's chest, her arms wrapped around him and one leg resting comfortably across his.
She had begun the evening with extraordinary confidence.
Made bold declarations.
Issued challenges.
Promised victory.
And for a while, she'd genuinely believed this would finally be the night.
But now her eyes were growing heavy, her breathing slowed, and sleep was winning.
Again.
Her final coherent thought drifted through her mind.
I was so close to winning.
Jax kissed the top of her head.
Nyxian smiled faintly in her sleep and tightened her embrace, using his chest as the world's most comfortable pillow.
Tomorrow, she would become Nyxian Darquebane.
And for once, even she couldn't think of anything better than that.