Festival Fun

After a fairly uneventful morning, the carriage and wagons neared the Gascon estate in the afternoon.

As they pulled up, a grand fanfare awaited. Mac could see carriages, wagons, and tents covering the area in front of the manor. It probably reached into the hundreds. Lord Gascon really outdid himself.

Approaching the sea of tents, a line of trumpeters played as they rolled by. Mac could see many nobles, and even what looked like some commoners (by their dress) cheering. He gave a polite wave back.

Once through the seat of tents, they pulled up to the front of the Gascon manor, parking in a circle in the front yard.

As they stopped, Kay burst out the door. “Father!” she shouted, running over and hugging Lord Gascon, who was there to welcome them.

“Kay, my dear!” he said, hugging her back.

Smiling at the display, Mac walked over and greeted him. “Lord Gascon, it's good to see you again.”

Lord Gascon gave a polite bow. “Sire, of course, it is good to see you as well. Oh...I see you've got quite the crowd now,” he added with a chuckle, seeing all of Mac's other partners exiting the carriage (Rhea was in small mode, back in Mac's pocket).

Giving a polite bow to all of them, Lord Gascon motioned to the sea of tents. “Come now, enjoy all the entertainment I gathered!”

Following along, they watched as people gathered around different tents. He could see jugglers, gymnasts, and all sorts of medieval-esque entertainment.

In one tent, something caught Mac's eye.

“Oho, I wondered if you might be interested in that...” Lord Gascon chuckled, leading them into one of the larger tents.

Inside...was an elephant. Well, it looks pretty close to an elephant. It's gotta an extra set of tusks and I don't remember them being orange, but otherwise that's definitely what it is.

A handler was leading the elephant through different tasks. As they sat down, the elephant was currently holding a huge tree trunk, lifting it up and down like a lifter would do with a dumbbell. With each lift, the crowd (including his company) gave an 'Oooooohhhhhh'.

Next, it put its four legs together and balanced on a (comparatively) small rock.

I guess this is basically a circus.

After the elephant finished, the handler led it away, and a new handler let in a large cat-like creature. It didn't look like any large cat Mac remembered from his world, but at the least it was unmistakably a cat.

As everyone watched it jump through hoops, Lord Gascon leaned over towards Mac. “So, sire, based on what I heard, the bandit subjugation went well?”

Mac nodded. “Yes. With mercifully few casualties.”

Lord Gascon nodded back. “That's good to hear. We'll need every soldier we have come next war. Speaking of which, I also heard you had a run-in with Provent?”

As always, he knows as much about what I'm doing as I do. Maybe more!

“We did. Fortunately we came to a...non-aggression agreement.”

Lord Gascon chuckled, “I thought I had heard you nabbed yourself another woman for that exchange, but I didn't see her come of out of the carriage.”

“I...” Mac paused. I probably shouldn't give him all the details about Gabriella. Not that I wanna talk about it anyway. “We're still working things out. Nothing official yet.”

Luckily, he seemed to have calculated correctly, as Lord Gascon gave an approving nod. “Best to not step on toes when it comes to foreign dealings.”

As Lord Gascon was about to ask something else, Kay walked over and wrapped her arms around Mac. “Honey, are you marrying my dad or are you marrying me?”

Lord Gascon chuckled, “Sorry, I've kept you too long,” he said, standing up. “Feel free to enjoy yourselves today, although I am preparing a grand feast in the manor for dinner.”

Mac smiled, “Of course.”

At this point, the cat and handler finished a ballroom dance they were doing, before giving a bow and heading out.

“Where do we wanna go next?” Mac asked.

“Actually, I wanted to visit my father,” Eleanor stated.

“I was going to visit my mother,” Charlotte added.

“I saw a guy selling some rare stuff I was gonna check out,” Daisy said, waving and plodding away.

Everyone had a different person or place they wanted to go see, until Mac was alone with Melissandra.

“You don't have anywhere you wanna go?” Mac asked.

“Not particularly,” she stated, before giggling, “Besides, it looks like I need to keep my husband company anyway.”

As they walked arm in arm through the rows of tents, they came across one filled with stalls selling hot food.

Mac had a realization. Hey, this is basically a festival date, right? I mean, I already completed the Mel route, but...

Stopping in front of one stall selling skewers of meat, he bought two and handed one to Melissandra.

Melissandra raised her eyebrow, “Thanks? You didn't have to, I'm actually not that hungry.”

Mac blushed, “Sorry, this just reminded me of a common date in my old world, so I thought it'd be fun.”

Melissandra also blushed, grabbing the extra stick from him and taking a bite. “Mmmmhhhh, this is quite good.”

Chomping down on their skewers, they continued examining the stalls, while Mac also bought a noodle dish. It didn't taste like one from his own world, but he thought it was still tasty.

In a corner of his eye, he noticed the bright red hair of Marie. As he focused his eyes, he realized there was actually two sets of red hair.

Melissandra, noticing what he was looking at, suggested. “Do you want to introduce yourself? I believe that is Marie's mother.”

I could have guessed from the hair. “Yeah, we probably should.”

As they walked up, Marie took notice of them. “Ah, this saves me the trouble. Mother, this is King Mac. Mac, this is my mother, Lady Lorraine.”

Mac smiled and gave a small bow to the older lady. While she couldn't be described as elderly, he could tell she was definitely getting on the older side, a few streaks of gray in her bright red hair.

Lady Lorraine gave a motherly smile. “Oh my, it's nice to finally meet you. I've not been up for traveling ever since my husband passed, but after the letter I received from Marie, I just had to come meet you.”

Mac smiled. “And you as well. Marie has been...well, Ositania wouldn't run without her.”

“Oh, stop,” Marie replied, giving an embarrassed smile.

Lady Lorraine turned to Melissandra. “Oh, and by your hair, you must be Melissandra. Marie's told me so much about you.”

“It's good to meet you as well,” Melissandra replied.

“Oho, I had heard, but it's good to see the countries future is secure,” Lady Lorraine added. “I do wish I could have had grandkids of my own.”

Marie winced, “I told you Mother, it's not a matter of wanting, I-”

Lady Lorraine patted Marie's head. “I know dear, it's not your fault.”

Melissandra, trying to cheer her up, “Well, once Mac and Marie are married, my child will be your grandkid. You're welcome to visit anytime.”

“I'll take you up on that,” Lady Lorraine said with a chuckle.

Marie, looking at the other two, said, “Mother, there's some other people I'd like to introduce you to,” and gave a wink.

Melissandra gave a blushing smile, and wrapped her arm around Mac's as they said goodbye.

After a while of walking through the stalls again, they noticed Emma at a fish-catching stall. Mac watched as she intently stared at the fish, before catching one lightning quick into her bucket.

Nice! Mac thought, only to watch her go right back to staring, before catching another. How many is she gonna get?

Melissandra asked, “Do you..?”

Mac shook his head, “No, she's in the zone, we should just leave her be.”

Melissandra nodded, and they continued walking.

A bit later, they ran into Daisy, carrying a sack with her.

“Haha, you two having fun?” she asked.

“Yeah, the food stalls are great,” Mac replied.

“Ohhhh, I better go check those out before I run outta money.”

Mac raised an eyebrow, “Run out? What did you buy!?”

Daisy chuckled, “Lookie here...” and opened her sack.

Inside, Mac saw metallic orange bars. “Wait..orichalum?”

Daisy nodded. “Yup, I needed some for a...special project I wanna do. I bought a seller here clean out.”

Melissandra smiled, “I look forward to seeing it.”

Wait...does she already know what it is?

Daisy closed the bag, gave Mac a quick peck, and headed off in the direction of the food stalls.

Continuing on, they ran into Charlotte talking with her mother, Lady Sophia. And surprisingly, Lord Harald.

“Ah, sire, good to see you again,” Lady Sophia said with a bow as they approached.

“Good to see you as well,” Mac said with a slight nod.

“And you as well Queen Melissandra,” she added, with a obvious look at Melissandra's baby bump.

“And you,” Melissandra smiled.

“Charlotte was just saying that you haven't-”

Charlotte got red and interrupted her, “Mother! I told you it's fine!”

Mac, picking up on what she meant, explained, “Charlotte and I are just taking things at our own pace. But, I think, we're quite happy so far.”

Charlotte blushed, but nodded. “See?”

To Mac's surprised, Lady Sophia smiled and nodded. “Well, that's fine then. As long as my daughter is happy.”

Charlotte, who did a worse job hiding her surprise, looked aghast at her mother, as if she didn't recognize her.

Lord Harald, who had been silent thus far, laughed. “Y'all are always a riot! I was right to come find you when I got here.”

Lady Sophia smirked, “Is that all?

“Haha, in truth, I wanted to see if you'd join me for a drink. My mates don't believe there's a an elf who can drink toe-to-toe with us.”

“Oho, I think I'll take you up on that. Would you care to join us?” she asked the others.

Mac, remembering the previous night, shook his head. “I think we'll continue walking.”

She nodded, and walked after Lord Harald.

Charlotte turned to them. “I'm going to go read more of that book I was on. I don't understand much, but it's so intriguing.

I don't know how advanced math can be so interesting, but I guess I'm not Charlotte.

Waving bye, they continued on.

As it darkened, Mac noticed something that caused his heart to skip a beat.

Fireworks!

He watched as one streaked overhead. He waited...but no bang came. Instead, the light spread out into different shapes. A flower, a sun, a shield, even a cat.

Melissandra asked, “Did they have something similar to this in your world? Could you replicate this without light magic?”

Mac shook his head. “Not exactly. We had something called 'fireworks' which were things that blew up in the sky with a loud bang, and shot glittering light everywhere.”

Melissandra smiled. “Sounds lovely.”

Mac nodded. “It was. This...has it's own charm too though.” Although much less heart pounding without the explosion sounds.

Mac grabbed Melissandra's hand as they watched the light show, which was now two dueling knights.

“This is actually a normal date activity in my old world,” Mac explained.

Melissandra smiled. “It was a date.”

Mac nodded. “True. Although normally, you would take someone your interested in, and then you'd ask them out at this part.”

Melissandra giggled, “Well, we're a bit past that part,” she said, rubbing her bump.

Mac held her tight and gave her a kiss.

“Uwaaaahhhh....” Mac heard from below. He looked down to see Rhea fly out of his pocket. “Sorry I'll leave now....”

“Wait, you don't...” Mac started, but stopped as Rhea flew into the distance.

Melissandra gave a sideways smile, “She probably felt awkward.”

Mac scratched his head. “She used to not. I guess things are different now that we're engaged.”

Melissandra nodded. “It's okay, just make sure to take care of her later,” she said, before giving him another kiss.

Mac looked up. “As much as I'd like to stay here with you, we should probably get to dinner.”

“Of course. I mean, I didn't even intend to monopolize you today anyway. It just turned out like that.”

Arm in arm, they made their way over to the manor house.

Assembling for dinner in the Gascon estates dinner hall, Mac was again amazed at the number of cat-human workers there. Sitting down at the head table, a cat-human butler sat a tray of some roasted pheasant.

Despite the eating he had done earlier, Mac was starving, salivating as the butler cut him off a hunk and placed it on his plate.

Kay, who was sitting on one side of him, giggled. “Don't eat too quick, or you'll make yourself sick the day before the wedding!”

“I won't, I'm just hungry,” he said, methodically cutting off a chunk and taking a bite.

“Nyahaha, if you say so,” Kay said, cutting off a slice of her own.

As Mac chewed, he looked around the table. Well, tables. He actually felt slightly less bad about his own number of partners looking around at Lord Gascon, who had, from Mac's count, twenty-one wives and concubines (all cat-humans, of course). They took up most of the dining hall just by themselves.

Sipping on his wine (and careful not to drink too much), he noticed Rhea hadn't come back.

Rhea?

Mac took a few more bites while waiting.

Rhea? I'm worried about you...

As he thought that, he noticed above him a small glint of light through one of the windows.

Mac smiled, I was just making sure you're alright.

The glint of light flew around in a circle a couple times before flying off.

“Sire, is the food not to your liking?” Lord Gascon, who was sitting on the other side of him, asked.

Snapping back to the table, Mac shook his head. “No, I mean, yes, it's fine. I was just...letting it digest before I grab some more.”

Lord Gascon gave a hearty laugh, “Haha, good to hear! My cooks are most excellent,” he added, passing him a meat pie.

Mac continued eating while making small talk, until dinner eventually wrapped up. Giving all his partners a kiss before bed again, a maid showed him to his room.

Mac did his normal bedtime ritual of washing up and putting on a tracksuit (this time the new one Bella had made). Dropping into the bed, he sighed. I know it's custom to be alone the night before the wedding, but this is still a bit lonely.

As if on cue, Mac heard a knock. Sitting up, he looked at the door. He heard another knock. Wait, that's not the door....

He turned around, and saw a light shining in the window. Rolling off the bed and walking over, he unlatched the window.

Rhea burst in, quickly going into big-form and flying into Mac, launching him onto the bed. “I was sooooo lonely,” she said, rubbing her face in his chest.

Mac ran a hand through her hair. “I'm sorry, I'm sorry, you just need to hide a while longer and then we'll have our grand reveal,” he said, trying to comfort her.

Rhea raised her head to look at him, looking a bit frustrated. “I don't understand these feelings. When I saw you all eating together, I...felt bad I wasn't there.”

Mac winced a bit. Sitting her up, he held her tightly, rubbing her back. “It's okay, I wish you were there too.”

Rhea took the opportunity to hug him back, and start kissing him.

Mac gently held her back. “Err, I'm not really supposed to do anything, since I have a wedding tomorrow.”

Rhea seemed confused. “Really? Why did Kay tell me to sneak in then?”

Now Mac was confused. “Kay did?

Rhea nodded. “Yeah, she mentioned in the carriage you would be alone tonight, and that no one else could get to you without raising suspicion except me, so I should sneak in once you were here.”

That sly cat... “Well, I guess if it was Kay's suggestion...”

Rhea jumped back on him, pressing her breasts against him as she passionately made out with him, grabbing his member through his pants. “Besides, you've been hard this whole time!”

Mac, incredulous, protested, “You're always naked when you transform, what do you expect!?”

Rhea giggled, before pulling off his pants and grabbing his erect rod, sliding herself on top of it.

Using her wings, she rapidly fluttered up and down.

“That's...new...” Mac said, barely able to breathe from the intensity.

“Yeah...I wanted to surprise you with it...” Rhea responded, while gasping for air.

After a few more moments, Mac pulled her down as he bolted his hips up, releasing inside her.

As he finished, Rhea started falling back, catching herself with her wings and sliding over next to Mac. “I don't know if I'll ever get tired of that.”

Mac smiled, “I dunno, you'll live quite a while, right?”

Rhea giggled, “Well, not anytime soon.”

They snuggled together under the blanket, Rhea holding onto him tightly, until they finally fell asleep.

Hopefully that holds her over for now...

Wedding Day - Kay

In the morning, Mac was startled by the sound of a knock.

Hold on Rhea, Mac thought, opening his eyes and looking at the window.

The window was already open, and Rhea was snuggled up next to him. “I'm right here,” she said sleepily.

There was another knock. This time, Mac realized it was coming from the door. Shoot! “I need to get ready. Rhea...” he looked at her. She was sitting up, groggily rubbing her eyes. “...what if they see you!?”

“They can't silly,” she said, leaning over and giving him a kiss. She then waved and wafted slowly out the window with a yawn, still in large form (and still naked).

Another knock came at the door. “Errmm...sire, are you alright?”

Mac dunked his head in the washbasin to wake himself up. “Yes, sorry, I'm still getting ready.”

Hearing no more knocks, he quickly threw on his regalia and crown. Lastly, he tied on the prism beast cape Emma had made him for his last wedding. They had decided to make it a normal part of the royal regalia going forward.

Finally opening the door, the small cat-human maid jumped up startled, eyes staring at his cape.

Mac smiled, “Sorry for the wait, please lead the way.”

After a quick walk, they headed to the front door, where Marie was waiting for him.

Smiling, she asked, “You don't mind me still walking you up right?”

Mac chuckled, “If anything it means more now,” before wrapping his arm around Marie's.

The catgirl maid blushed slightly seeing them, before opening the door for them as the music started.

Walking outside, Mac saw that the front yard had been turned into a large seating area, with rows and rows of pews facing a platform.

Slowly making their way up, Mac could see the stares of everyone looking at him. I guess I'm used to it...

Once they reached the platform, Mac helped Marie up before turning around and facing the door. Next, Melissandra and La Hire entered, walking down towards them. Mac and La Hire both helped Melissandra up the stairs, causing her to blush and smile in thanks.

As they settled in, the music changed, and the door opened once more. This time, Lord Gascon and Kay walked down. Kay was wearing a formal wedding dress, similar to Melissandra's. Her hair, which she had been growing out since they got engaged, was tied together near the end of its length.

Normally Kay looks cute, now shes...enchanting.

Grinning ear-to-ear, Kay stared at Mac as she walked up. Giving a hug to her father (who sat down in a row with his many partners), Kay walked up to stand in front of him.

Mac smiled back, I'm glad we managed to get here. While the marriage had been arranged, he could confidently say he cared about Kay just as much as the others. I better make sure I tell her later.

As Marie recited the wedding ritual, they got to the ring exchange. Mac grabbed the ring with a large pink gemstone for Kay that Daisy had special-made for her, and slipped it on Kay's finger. Despite already grinning, she somehow seemed to get even more giddy.

Turning around, she grabbed the matching ring for Mac, slipping it onto his index finger (on the same hand as Melissandra and Eleanor's).

Hand in hand, they turned and faced the crowd. Marie walked over, placing a crown on Kay's head.

“I now present, Mac and Kay Ositania!”

A large (partly due to the immense size of the crowd) cheer erupted, the gathered populace applauding.

I feel like I'm getting used to his finally. Maybe...

Mac's thoughts were cut off as some of the crowd started shouting and pointing.

What are they-

Mac suddenly felt a powerful punch in his lower back, causing him to spill forward. As if in slow motion, he teetered over the edge of the platform. As he looked back, he saw Kay reaching out for him, Melissandra with a look of terror on her face, Marie looking in shock, and La Hire drawing his blade. And where he had been standing a moment ago, a cloaked figure with a dagger. Did he...stab me?

Time went rushing back to a normal pace. Mac fell into the empty space in front of the platform, falling the couple meters onto the ground below, slamming his head into the ground.

His vision started swimming as he felt a sharp pain in the back of his head.

“Mac! Mac!” he heard shouted in front of him. Through his shaky vision, he could barely make out Kay, ears poking up over the top of her crown.

“Kay...” he said, reaching out his hand and grabbing her cheek. He thought he felt wetness.

“Mac...” she said, grabbing his hand.

Mac was finding it harder to see her, his vision seeming to glow so brightly he couldn't make anything out. Am I...dying? Oh god...

“Kay... love...” was all he got out before his vision went completely white.

Urghh....am I hungover again?

Mac felt a throbbing pain in his head. He tried to open his eyes, but his eyelids felt heavy.

What's going on?

He thought he heard talking around him, but he couldn't make anything out.

Deciding to try and open his eyes again, he focused intently, and finally managed to get them open.

His eyes took a couple seconds to adjust, but it seemed like he was inside a tent.

“Mac!” he heard shouted next to him, feeling someone hugging him.

“Kay, be careful, we don't know...”

As his eyes swerved, he realized he was being surrounded on all sides. As his vision finally came into focus, he realized he was surrounded by his partners, all looking at him concerned.

“How are you feeling?” Eleanor asked, putting a pillow behind him as he tried to sit up.

“Um...heads hurts a bit...” He trailed off as he noticed their makeup in disarray. “What happened?”

Melissandra, who was sitting opposite Kay, responded, “You don't...remember? Do you know who we are?”

Mac was taken aback. “What? Of course, you're my wife. You're also my wife. You're going to be my wife...” he said, looking at people in turn.

Felicia smirked, “You can't be feeling that bad if you're cracking jokes.”

The tension seemed to lift a bit in the room. Marie walked over and took a long drink from a glass of wine, while Daisy comforted Charlotte, who seemed like she might still be crying a bit.

The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

“Um, so...I still wanna know what happened. Why are we in a tent? Don't we need-”

“Do you not remember what happened?” Emma asked.

Mac scrunched his face in thought. “Um. I woke up, got dressed, came down, got married...” he stopped, remembering the scene that had played out after Marie had announced them. He quickly felt the spot on his back where he had been stabbed. It hurt when he touched it, but their wasn't any wound. “I thought I got stabbed.”

Melissandra nodded, “You did, but the prism beast's cape blunted the blade. Although the force of it knocked you off the platform. You, um...hit your head.”

Mac felt the back of his head. A large bump had swelled up, and it was tender to the touch. “I think the ground did more damage than the blade. What happened to the attacker?”

Emma responded, “When his knife blunted on your cape, he froze up, and La Hire stabbed him-...”

Felicia jumped in, “And Marie burned him to a crisp.”

Marie blushed a bit. “I couldn't help myself,” and took another swig of wine.

Eleanor sighed, “Still, what luck to be wearing the prism beast cape. You must be blessed by the spirits.”

Rhea, who was in small form and sitting on Eleanor's shoulder, punched her cheek playfully. “What do you mean, he is blessed by a spirit! Me!”

Mac smiled, “I'm sorry I worried you all.”

Melissandra shook her head. “It's not your fault.”

Mac tried to get up, but Kay, who was still holding onto him, grabbed him tighter. Rubbing her head, Mac responded, “Don't worry, I'm not gonna die that easily.”

Looking up with watery eyes, Kay gave him a smile. “You'd better not.”

Melissandra asked, “Are you really okay? We can take you over to the carriage...”

Mac stood up, unsteady for a moment until Daisy wrapped her thick arm around his waist to steady him. Giving him a 'hehe' smile, Mac smiled back as he straightened himself. “Why to the carriage?”

Melissandra seemed confused. “So we can leave?”

Mac was taken aback. “What do you mean? Don't we have the after-party? And another day of celebrations tomorrow?”

They all looked at each other, then back at Mac.

“You still want to go through with everything? The guards and Lord Gascon haven't determined who sent the attacker yet,” Melissandra explained.

“Father was...quite livid. He was kicking the burnt corpse in anger while the guards were hauling it away,” Kay added.

Marie was grumbling, taking another drink.“Damn bastards, I already lost one...”

Mac shrugged, “I don't know, I guess I'd rather just continue on with things.”

Most of them looked concerned, although Daisy and Felicia chuckled.

After a few moments, Eleanor nodded, “While I'm worried, that would send a good message to the other nobles.”

Marie slapped her now-empty wine glass down. “I agree.”

Melissandra, still worried, added, “But what if there's more?”

Mac gave her a hug. “We'll just have to be careful. To be honest, I am kind of scared, but I don't think hiding away is gonna solve anything.”

Marie stood up and made a flame in her hand. “I'll torch anyone that even thinks-...”

She stopped as Mac walked over and gave her a hug too. Marie's face scrunched up a bit, before she started crying softly, holding Mac tightly.

After a few minutes of preparing (including fixing everyone's makeup), they sent word to Lord Gascon that they would be continuing with dinner and the after-party. They grouped up to go back out, forming a train.

Mac and Kay wrapped arms and walked out the tent first. Their was a large amount of people standing around (and a large contingent of guards nearby), who all turned to look as they exited. A murmur started going through the crowd, as the people who couldn't see them heard.

Mac wasn't sure what to do. Luckily, Kay started waving, so Mac also waved, and the crowd slowly started applauding, and built up until the entire crowd was applauding and cheering.

The guards with them slowly wedged through the crowd, leading Mac, Kay, and the others following, towards the manor.

As they entered the entrance hall, Lord Gascon scurried over, nearly tripping over himself, before prostrating in front of him. “Sire! I have no excuses. Please spare Kay and enact any-”

“What!?” Mac said, looking surprised.

Lord Gascon turned his head up, also looking surprised.

Kay leaned over and whispered in Mac's ear. “He think you would be upset at House Gascon, or specifically me.”

Why would I...well, whatever... “I'm not going to exact anything. Does it look like I'm upset with Kay?”

Lord Gascon looked at the two of them, still locked arm-in-arm. “Err, well...”

“Come now, let's go to dinner. I'm quite hungry after all that...” Mac explained.

Lord Gascon looked dazed for a few moments, before collecting himself and standing back up. “I as well, sire. Right this way...”

During dinner, the hall was bursting to the seems with people. Unsurprisingly, there was quite a lot of chatter about the attempted assassination.

As usual, his partners were chatting amongst themselves.

Marie and Eleanor were discussing the would-be assassin.

“They don't have any ideas?” Eleanor asked.

Marie shook her head. “They think it might be someone from outside the kingdom.”

Daisy and Charlotte, however, were talking about the steam engine.

“I think the next step is to try and see how much we can lift,” Charlotte explained.

“How we gonna to do that?” Daisy asked, stuffing a roll in her face.

“Well, I've got an idea...”

Even here, they can't stop talking about it.

On the other side, Felicia and Emma were talking to Rhea (who was on the table in front of them, munching on a potato).

“I wish I could get pregnant that easily...” Emma said, sighing.

Felicia shrugged, “It's just part of being rabbit-human. Besides, from what you've told me, there's no way you aren't before long...”

Emma giggled, “Hopefully...”

Rhea put down her piece of potato and smiled, “Me too!”

They both looked at Rhea, then at each other.

“Are...your kids going to be purple, too?” Emma asked.

Rhea stared for a few moments. “I don't know...”

Next to him, Kay and Melissandra were chatting.

“We can't let him go out anymore,” Kay said.

Melissandra shook her head, “You know he's not going to be up for that...”

Mac shook his head. “I'm right here, I can here you...”

Kay blushed a bit. “Sorry, I just...”

Mac grabbed her hand. “It's okay, I know you're just looking out for me. We can talk about it later.”

Kay teared up a bit, before leaning over and giving him a kiss.

Since they were at the main table, this earned a few cheers and claps from the audience.

Kay giggled. “Should we take that as a sign for us to mingle, then?”

However, as they walked about, most people were just giving the normal congratulations, and not actually stopping to talk.

Mac whispered to Kay, “Easy for us, I guess?”

Kay had a pained look, “I think everyone is still thrown off because of earlier...”

Luckily, they ran into several familiar faces. Lady Sophia and Charlotte were talking, along with Lord Harald and Daisy.

“Congratulations sire. Another wonderful wedding, disregarding the...circumstances,” Lady Sophia said with a pained smile.

Mac shook his head, “Thanks, and pay it no mind.”

Lord Harald laughed, “Haha, what a King. This will go down in legend, completing your wedding after getting stabbed.”

Lady Sophia coughed, “Ermm...anyways, Charlotte was just properly introducing me to the lovely Daisy here.”

Daisy laughed, “Haha, I was surprised to see you were already friends with Uncle Harald.”

Mac's eyes widened, “You're her Uncle!?”

Lord Harald laughed, “Haha, not by blood, but I fought with her father in many wars, so we're battle brothers.”

I guess that's important in dwarf culture.

Lord Harald continued, “Little Daisy here was showing me the marriage dagger you crafted. It's...not bad for a first piece of work. Given some time and tutelage you could probably be a decent smith,” he added, holding it up and examining it.

Mac chuckled, “Well, I wouldn't mind doing more, if I ever have time...”

After a bit more talking (including Lord Harald and Lady Sophia inspecting Kay's ring, as that was also Daisy's work) they continued on their way.

Next, they, ran into Lord Arpitan, who approached them with a bow.

“Sire. It's good to see you unharmed,” he said with a smirk.

Used to his demeanor now, Mac chuckled, “Haha, me too.”

Lord Arpitan gave one of his wide grins back. “And you as well, my dame. That's a lovely dress.”

Kay giggled, “Thank you Lord Arpitan.”

Mac was slightly disappointed. No 'nyah' for that laugh!? Remembering something, Mac asked, “Oh, are you going to have your wedding soon, Lord Arpitan? I'd be glad to attend.”

Lord Arpitan seemed taken aback. After a moment, he replied, “Of course, sire. I don't have an exact date yet, but it should be soon, and I will make sure you receive an invite.”

After that, they were, surprisingly, stopped by Captain La Hire. He had a whole gaggle of woman around him, being Fiona, Kelly, and Felicia.

“Sire, please, could you convince them otherwise...” La Hire asked, almost pleadingly.

Mac was confused. “Sorry, I'm...not sure what you're talking about...”

Felicia giggled, “I proposed we have a double wedding. You and I get married at the same time as La Hire and Fiona.”

La Hire shook his head, “I can't impose on a-”

“I like it! That sounds fun,” Mac replied, smiling.

La Hire facepalmed. “Sire, I....”

“What does your fiance think?” Mac asked, looking at Fiona.

She blushed slightly, nodding, “I'd be really happy getting married alongside my sister.”

La Hire blushed.

“Well, there you have it!”

Kay turned to Kelly, “Too bad we couldn't have done the same.”

Kelly shook her head, “Father would have rejected the idea for us, on the grounds he only got to plan one wedding instead of two.”

This earned a chuckle all around.

After they had finished mingling, Mac and Kay followed the normal rule of making a big show of leaving.

However, unlike past weddings where the couple were excited to spend the night together, Kay was a bit more subdued. As they walked, she wrapped her arms around him.

Mac scratched her ears, “I'm not going anywhere...”

After they got to the room, Kay dropped on the bed, exhausted. “Today didn't turn out like I imagined it would...”

Mac sat down next to her and lightly chuckled, “Well, unless you planned on having me stabbed...”

Kay sat up and playfully punched him, “Don't even joke about that!”

Mac pulled her close and gave her a kiss. “Please don't fret over it too much. I'm sure they'll catch...whoever did it, and everything will be fine.”

Kay fell weakly in his arms, blushing, “I can't say no when you act like that...”

Slowly and passionately kissing, Mac unzipped her dress, but Kay pushed him away. “Wait!”

Surprised, Mac put his hands up. “Sorry...I...”

Kay blushed again, “No, I...” she paused for a moment. “I wanted to confirm what you told me earlier.”

Mac raised an eyebrow. “I...what part do you want to confirm?”

Kay leaned in close, and whispered, “Do you really love me?”

Mac had a flashback to earlier in the day, when his vision was going out after falling off the platform, holding Kay's cheek in his hand. Kay was looking at him with a deep blush.

Mac smiled, “Yes, I do. I thought...well, if I was going to die, I wanted to make sure you knew.”

Kay blushed heavier than Mac had ever seen her do before. Grabbing him and standing him up, they both undressed quickly.

“Nyahaha, I figured you'd be ready,” Kay laughed.

Mac picked her up, holding her as he slid his member into her.

“Nyahhh!” Kay shouted, before wrapping her arms around him. “What's got into you!?”

“I just wanted to try this out...”

Kay grinned mischievously, “We'll see how long you last...” she responded, wriggling her hips around.

Mac almost instantly felt himself boiling up. “Not long...” was all he got out, before holding her close and releasing inside her.

Falling over onto the bed, Kay giggled. “Hopefully you're not done already.”

Mac shook his head, “Definitely not...” and started making out with her again.

After going a few more rounds, Mac fell asleep, completely exhausted.

Kay, lying down next to him, ran her fingers through his hair a few times, smiling. She leaned over and whispered, “I love you too” before kissing his cheek, and curling up next to him.

Wedding Aftermath

Mac woke up, feeling something draped around him. What is this...

Opening his eyes, he could see that Kay had both her arms and her legs wrapped around him, as if to make sure he couldn't even wake up without her noticing.

Sure enough, as he tried to sit up, Kay immediately woke up. Leaning up and giving him a kiss, she asked, “Sleep well?”

Mac was about to answer, when a knock came at the door.

Were we asleep that long? It's morning but it's not that late, is it?

Mac quickly threw on his tracksuit and went to the door, while Kay went into the bathroom to wash up.

Slowly opening the door a crack, outside he saw Marie and Kelly.

“We caught the culprit,” Marie said nonchalantly.

Mac blinked a few times. “Wha-...really? Who?”

Marie continued, “Lord Oran.”

Mac scrunched his face, thinking hard and trying to remember who Lord Oran was. Hmm...I think he was at the Introduction Ceremony, and I remember his name from some concubine offers as well.

Kelly chimed in, “I asked around, and one of my contacts was friends with one of his maids. She had information but was scared and didn't know who to talk to, so we offered her protection in exchange for coming forward. She told us that Lord Oran had grown frustrated with his inability to get you to take one of his daughters, and hired someone to take you out.”

Mac shook his head. “I mean, I feel bad, but-”

Marie cut him off, “Mac, you did more than enough when it came to picking wives after you got here. This was essentially him being a sore loser.”

Mac gave a sideways smile, “I guess that's one way to put it. I'm impressed you were able to convince the maid to turn on him though.”

Kelly shook her head, “As soon as we offered to take her in, she immediately told us everything. You're quite popular with the maids of the Kingdom, for some reason...”

Mac was about to ask, but then blushed as he realized why.

“So, uh...now what?” Mac asked.

Marie responded, “Well, you'll need to dole out the punishment. An assassination would generally involved executing the culprit, any accomplices, and any direct family members.”

“What!? I get the first two, but why their family members?” Mac asked, eyes widening in surprise.

Marie shrugged, “They're assumed to be complicit, and you wouldn't want to take chances.”

Mac shook his head, “I don't-”

“Maaaaacccc, where are you?” a voice rang from the bathroom. “Come scrub with me!”

Mac blushed, “Sorry...” he tried to say, causing Kelly to giggle.

Marie smiled, “Why don't you go spend more time with your new wife, and we can finish discussing later.”

After bathing with Kay and getting breakfast, they met in a room Lord Gascon had set aside for them.

Mac, Marie, and Kay sat around a table, while Kelly led in a brown-haired maid that Mac didn't recognize. “Abby, could you please tell King Mac what you told me.”

The maid, Abby, did a curtsy. Mac could tell she was shaking slightly. “Yes. Lord Oran hired the man who attacked you yesterday, a Navarran, I guess an assassin-for-hire. I recognized him from the manor. I...” she blushed, pausing for a moment, “...always try to talk to the men who visit the manor, but he blew me off when I tried. He came and left a few times in the weeks before your wedding with Queen Kay. The last time, he left with an entire chest from our Lord. I thought it was suspicious, but I didn't think...”

Kelly put her hand on Abby's shoulder as she started to tear up. “Thanks Abby, you can go now.”

Abby curtsied and walked out.

After she was gone, Marie started explaining, “Lord Oran actually left during dinner yesterday, but the guards caught up to him and have brought him back.”

“Huh...that's pretty suspicious. Did he put up a fight?” Mac asked.

Marie shook her head, “No, the runner said he surrendered immediately, although he was outnumbered.”

Mac was confused. Is it just because of the rejections? That seems kind of extreme though.

Seeing what Mac was thinking, Marie asked, “What do you want to do? They will probably be back soon.”

Mac scrunched his face, thinking. “Um...is there a cell we can throw him in?”

Marie nodded. “Yes. What about his family?”

Mac remembered the conversation from earlier. “Do...do we really have to execute his whole family?”

Marie sighed, “Well, that law got instituted because the children kept coming back for revenge for their parents.”

That sounds like a movie plot.

Kelly chimed in, “I asked Abby earlier and she said no one else met with the assassin besides Lord Oran, at least that she saw.”

Marie responded, “Just because they didn't meet...” but stopped and bit her lip. She turned to Mac, “It's not like I want them to die, but I can't have anyone threatening you....”

Mac leaned over and grabbed Marie's hand and smiled. “I know. I'll think of something.”

Later, they were notified the guards had returned with Lord Oran. Since the cell was small, the rest of the family that had attended was put on watch in a spare room.

Leading the way down, Mac and Marie went to talk to him (Kay and Kelly went to spend time with the other girls). As they went down to the cell, they heard a commotion coming from the direction of the cell. Looking at each other, they picked up the pace.

As they reached the bottom of the stairs leading to the cells, they saw what the commotion was. Lord Cartegna had a handcuffed man (who Mac assumed was Lord Oran) by the scruff of the neck and was trying to punch him, but was being held back by several of the guards. Based on Lord Oran's face, it looks like Lord Cartegna had already gotten a few hits in before he was restrained.

“Bastard! How could you do such a thing!? To try and have your own King killed. Eleanor's husband! You've known her since she was a young girl, how could you do that to her!?” Lord Cartegna shouted in rage.

Lord Oran merely turned his head and looked away.

Mac walked over and put his hand on Lord Cartegna's shoulder.

He looked, calming down when he saw Mac's face. “Son..I apologize, when I heard Lord Oran, my own cousin, had done such a thing, I couldn't hold myself back.”

Mac shook his head. “It's okay. Why don't you go spend some more time with Eleanor?”

Lord Cartegna took a moment to react, but then smiled and nodded. “I'll do just that.” The guards released him, and he adjusted his clothes, before walking up and out.

Mac turned to Lord Oran, who was still looking away.

After a few moments of silence, Mac asked. “So, uh...why'd you do it? I don't even think we've talked, besides a few lines at my weddings, and the Introduction Ceremony.”

Lord Oran didn't react.

After a few more moments, Mac asked, “Was it because I rejected all the offers for your daughters and nieces?”

This got a reaction, as Lord Oran smirked. “You really think that's why? Although, it does show your poor judgment.”

Mac raised an eyebrow, “Poor judgment?”

“You choose to marry commoners over them? A dwarf over them? And making ridiculous deals with the elves. But no...” he spat out, malice in his voice. “No...the worst sin of all, making a peace agreement with Provent! I lost three sons in the last war! Three! And instead of taking revenge, you just take one of their woman in exchange for peace, like the lecher you are.”

Mac felt a rush of movement to his right, as Marie had walked past and slapped Lord Oran so hard he fell over.

Lord Oran seemed genuinely stunned. A guard grabbed him and sat him back on his knees. “I thought you, Marie, would be able to see reason, since you're late husband died in the war with Provent as well. But I see the rumors are true, you've been corrupted by him, too.”

Marie, trying to collect herself, replied, “Mac has done more for this Kingdom in five months than you did your entire life.”

This enraged Lord Oran, who now fought with his shackles.

Mac shook his head. I still don't like ordering his execution, even now...although he probably deserves it. Then, Mac alighted on an idea. “Well, I was going to spare your family, but since you've acted like this...”

Lord Oran's demeanor switched again, this time panicking. “Please, they didn't have anything to do with it. Didn't they sell me out?”

Mac decided not to tell him the truth. “So? The law is the law.”

Lord Oran, looked angry, but looked down, not saying anything, and shaking.

“La Hire?” Mac asked.

La Hire, who had been leaning against the wall, walked up. “Sire?”

“What's the most humiliating way to die for a knight?”

La Hire thought for a moment, realizing what he was getting at. “Well, it isn't a way to die, but being sold into slavery would be pretty humiliating. I guess that could be basically a death sentence, depending on their owner.”

Mac nodded. “Alright, I've decided, instead of execution, strip him of his titles, and sell him off in a foreign country. That way it at least makes some money for the kingdom.”

Lord Oran pleaded as the guards started to take him away. “Please...please allow my family to at least be sold with me...”

Mac shook his head. “Who said I'm selling them off?” he replied, implying they would still be executed.

Lord Oran's face was shocked, before his body went limp, as the guards dragged him away.

There was silence in the room as everyone besides Mac, Marie, and La Hire left.

“Mac...” Marie started. “Are you...”

“No, I'm not going to execute them. I just wanted him to think that as punishment.”

Marie gave a wry smile, “I didn't think you could even be cruel like that.”

Mac shook his head, “Neither did I, but I guess this was an exception.”

Marie sighed. “Well, what will we do with them?”

“Confiscate their estate for the kingdom. Actually, go ahead and put their assets in our agriculture fund, so some good will come of it, and have Lord Cartegna administer their land for now. Have the rest of the family work as servants in Houses we trust. If enough time passes and they haven't tried anything, we may free them in the future.”

Marie nodded, before walking off to set everything in motion.

Afterwards, Mac went to find his partners, who were all eating lunch in the dining hall with Lord Gascon (and an assortment of cat-human family).

After explaining the end-results, he got a few concerned looks.

“Are you sure that's what you want to do?” Melissandra asked.

Mac nodded. “This was the best result I could think of. Or at least, the one that weighed the least on my conscience.”

Eleanor seemed sad. “Lord Oran was one of the few nobles who was nice to me. I can't believe he would do something like this.”

Mac shook his head, “I know. Based on our conversation...I think he never got over his son's deaths. And it probably stewed inside him for years until now, when he had someone to blame.”

After some silence, Lord Gascon chimed in. “Well, enough of that. I hope your majesties enjoy the festivities today. Best to take your mind off things.”

Mac nodded. “I'm sorry the wedding you spent so long preparing was ruined by this.”

“No, no, I'm just glad everyone is fine,” Lord Gascon protested. “Although, yes, it is unfortunate that the talk of the wedding will only be one thing...”

During that day, the festival had still been in full swing, as the fact that the royal family was seemingly unharmed meant that there was no need to worry (or worse, mourn).

And so, after dinner, a large crowd gathered. They watched in curiosity as Marie walked up, announcing (really, shouting so that the large crowd could hear) the results of the investigation into the attempted assassination, as well as the punishments the King had doled out. While a few odd looks were given, there was no complaints in the crowd, at least that Mac could see.

Mac smiled as Marie walked down. “I think I'm going to go lie down,” he explained, waving goodbye to the others.

As he walked inside towards his room, he realized Marie was following him.

“Err...are you tired too?” Mac asked.

Marie blushed. “Yes...well, no...I...”

Mac walked back and grabbed her hand. “Don't worry, I can probably go at least once.”

Blushing harder, Marie nodded and let Mac lead her to the room.

Inside, Marie quickly started undressing Mac, making out with him. “I'm sorry, ever since this morning at the cell, I've been wanting you-...”

Mac cut her off with another kiss. “You don't need to apologize. If you need me, then I'm here for you. Although, if it happens too often the others might get mad...”

Marie giggled before pushing Mac onto the bed. “I know you said once, but we'll see about that...”

Mac gulped as Marie jumped on top of him.

Back at the festival, the rest of Mac's partners were walking around the stalls together.

Melissandra stopped them at the skewer stall. “Mac and I had these the first day, they're quite tasty.”

All of them got one, except Daisy, who got three.

After finishing them off, Daisy commented, “Those were good, but now I really want an ale...”

Melissandra nodded, “I don't mind if we want to go to the bar tent. Elly? Fe?”

Both of the other pregnant woman shook their head, so they went to the large bar tent in the middle of the festival.

Daisy instantly noticed someone and went over, the others following, and as they came up the one of the bars, they noticed a peculiar assortment had gathered to drink together: Lord Harald, Lady Sophia, Lord Cartegna, and Lady Lorraine.

Daisy clapped Lord Harald's back as she pulled up a stool next to him. “Uncle! You keep hanging out with Lady Sophia and everyone will think you're lovers.”

“Daisy my girl! Well, about that...” he said, before chuckling.

Lady Sophia blushed a bit.

“Mom!?” Did you really!?” Charlotte asked, shocked.

Lady Sophia smiled, “I'd never even thought to be with a dwarf before. It was so...exhilarating.”

Charlotte blushed, looking down at the ground in embarrassment. Her embarrassment quickly dissipated though as she had a realization. If mom marries Daisy's uncle, doesn't that mean we'd be related!?

Charlotte walked up and tugged on Lord Harald's arm, giving a bow. “Please treat me well, I look forward to having Daisy as a relative.”

Lord Harald was taken aback first, but then started laughing. “Haha, I already have a few wives, and I know for a fact your mother already has a few husbands.”

Charlotte, not to be deterred, shook her head. “That's okay, I mean, Mac already has nine.”

Lord Harald laughed again, “Haha, I appreciate your persistence. It would be interesting, combining a dwarf house with an elf house...” Lord Harald trailed off, as if he was actually starting to consider it.

He turned to Lady Sophia, who was also deep in thought, muttering, “We have a lot that the other could use...”

Meanwhile, Felicia and Kay were talking with Rhea, who was leaning over and taking a drop of ale.

“Hmm...this tastes different than what I remember. It's pretty good though,” Rhea explained.

“Aren't you going to drink something Kay? I thought you said you weren't pregnant?” Felicia asked.

Kay shook her head. “I'm pretty sure I'm not, but it's hard to say after last night,” she said, holding her cheeks and blushing.

At the same time, Melissandra and Eleanor were talking with Lord Cartegna and Lady Lorraine.

“Father! You're pregnant daughter is here! Are you just going to ignore me?” Eleanor said, pouting.

Lord Cartegna laughed before giving her a head pat. “Haha, shouldn't you be getting your husband to give you attention instead?”

Eleanor smiled, “I think he went to bed to sleep, although...”

Melissandra nodded, “Marie went to him.”

Lord Cartegna laughed, “Haha, well I'm sure he won't turn down a beautiful woman like Marie. I can see where she gets her good looks from,” he added, turning to Lady Lorraine.

Lady Lorraine blushed, “Oh stop you, no one's calling an old lady like me beautiful.”

Lord Cartegna shook his head, “Nonsense, I think ladies are like fine wine...”

Melissandra and Eleanor looked at each other, before gulping.

Emma, who didn't normally drink, decided to try a beer. Taking a sip, she stuck out her tongue, Uegh...it's so bitter...

Heading Home

The next morning, they said their goodbyes to Lord Gascon and the rest as their wagons were loaded up.

Kay was hugging her mom and Lord Gascon.

“Haha, don't worry Kay, we'll have to come visit once you're with child,” Lord Gascon explained.

Kay nodded, “That probably won't take too long...”

Mac scratched his cheek, blushing a bit.

After they all got into the carriage and started traveling, Melissandra pulled Mac aside.

Mac was concerned, seeing the serious look on her face. “What...what's wrong?”

Melissandra shook her head. “Nothing is wrong, per se, I just don't know how you're going to take this.”

Mac raised an eyebrow. “What do you mean?”

Melissandra sighed, before continuing, “We want you to start prioritizing time with the non-pregnant wives.”

Oh...that's why she was concerned.

“I thought we talked about this, I don't want...”

Melissandra held up her hand. “I know, I know, it's only until everyone is pregnant. And I said only prioritize them, not removing us altogether. It'll be three nights with them for every one night with us.”

Mac shook his head, “No, that's too long. The most I'm willing is two.”

Melissandra thought for a moment. “Okay, I guess that's fine, if you're agreeing to it.”

Mac nodded, before having a realization. Why am I haggling my time with my wives...Shaking his head to clear the thought, Mac asked, “Daisy and Charlotte too?”

Melissandra nodded. “Daisy actually wants to try and follow the same schedule as everyone else, so she'll be taking nights too. As for Charlotte...she was part of the conversation and agreed with everything, so...”

Mac looked over at Charlotte, who was nose-deep in the math textbook again. Well, we'll see what she wants...

Thinking more, Mac asked, “Wait, what about Marie?”

Melissandra grimaced a bit, “I felt bad, but Marie agreed to only take one night per rotation too.”

Mac nodded. Well, it is what it is, I'll just make sure Marie doesn't feel left out.

After traveling straight through the day (including some interesting conversations about their times at the festival) they eventually reached the inn, staying at the same one they had when they were traveling to the Gascon estate.

I wonder if Fawna's mother is okay? Mac thought as he exited the carriage.

Mac would get his answer quickly, as as soon as he got to the ground, he was rushed by Fawna in her tavern outfit, repeatedly bowing. “Sire! Thank you again so much! My mother is already feeling better.”

Behind Fawna, an older deer-human lady, also in a tavern outfit, was walking over. “Fawna, it's not good to bother the customer too much,” she explained, lightly scolding Fawna. Turning to Mac, she smiled and bowed as well. “Thank you sire. I am feeling much better. How can I ever repay you?”

Mac shook his head, “No, it's okay, I'm just glad the medicine worked.”

Fawna's mother shook her head back, “Well, please allow my daughter to repay you, at least, as she very much would like to.”

Fawna nodded her head in agreement.

Mac blushed, seeing the others were gathering around him. “I thought we talked about-”

Fawna cut him off, “No, no, I remember what you said. Please allow me to serve you instead. I can cook and clean, of course.”

Melissandra, who was standing behind him, chimed in “Well, at the rate we're going we could use more maids...”

Marie nodded, “Yes, especially ones that don't need trained. Tillie will love you.”

Eleanor, hearing this, hugged Fawna and rubbed cheeks, “Another cute little sister!”

Mac shook his head as the others all mobbed Fawna, “Well, I guess if no one has any objections....”

It was evident there was none, as they cheerily followed Fawna and her mother into the tavern.

After a warm and mirth-filled dinner (in which Charlotte was rationed to only a small cup of beer) Mac relaxed in his room by himself again. It still felt a little unreal that he had almost been killed a couple days ago. Although, I think it might be best not to think about it too much. And, honestly, I don't know if it was worse than the prism beast, even if that never actually got close to me.

Mac shook his head to clear his thoughts. No sense dwelling on it. As he started to walk from his chair to the bed, a knock came at the door.

Why does this always happen!?

Sighing in defeat, Mac walked over to the door. Opening it, he was surprised to find a trio of maids waiting outside.

“Hehe, what do you think?” Kelly said, giggling.

“Kelly's was too small in the chest, so she had to wear one of mine, so it may look a bit short,” Fiona said, her normal stoic look on her face.

In between them was Fawna, now donning one of the royal maid's outfits. As Fiona mentioned, it did seem a bit short, but overall fit her well. Fawna was blushing heavily, lowering her head with eyes looking up at Mac.

“Yes, you're very cute,” Mac nodded.

Fawna blushed a bit harder, but smiled.

“Nyahaha, I told ya!” Kelly laughed, putting one hand behind Fawna.

Fiona nodded, also putting a hand behind Fawna.

They then shoved her into Mac, before closing the door.

Mac caught her, before helping her stand up straight. Shaking his head, he though I wouldn't have guessed those two would do something like this, it's usually my wives... “How did this happen?”

“Marie sent me to them, and they asked if I wanted to start right away, and then dressed me up in this,” Fawna explained.

Mac nodded, “That tracks so far, but then why did they shove you in here!?”

Fawna blushed again, “They said they didn't have a bed for me since I just started, and that you were alone again tonight, so that I should keep you company.”

Mac shook his head, “The first part, sure maybe that's true, but I think the second part was unnecessary...” he explained.

Fawna looked nervous. “I...I know what you said last time, but I heard sire likes the company of his maids...”

Mac shook his head again. “I mean, yes, I did marry two of them, but I haven't touched any of the others.”

Fawna seemed surprised. “Really? The story goes that Queen Melissandra seduced you on the first night you were summoned.”

Mac facepalmed. “No, that's not...we did spend some time together but we didn't do anything like that...”

“And that you like bed all the royal maids, sometimes multiple at a time...”

Mac vehemently shook his head, “That one is definitely not true...”

Fawna seemed a bit put out, “Oh...”

Mac was taken aback at the reaction. Continuing on, he added, “Didn't I also tell you to save your first time for someone you want to give it too.”

Fawna cheered right back up, “Yes, I want to give it to sire.”

Mac closed his eyes, grabbing his forehead. You know, I think I'm to blame. I should have seen this coming. “Look...” Mac started, before stopping as he saw Fawna's smile and glistening eyes. Should I just accept the inevitable? No, she probably won't change her mind, but I can at least get to know her first, and give her a chance.

While he was thinking, Fawna added, “I really don't mind being a special service maid. Actually, that was my intention from the start...” she explained, blushing again.

Deciding on a course of action, Mac put on a more regal attitude. “I like to get to know my partners first. If you perform your duties admirably for a time, then I will upgrade your status. Oh, and you'll also need my partners acceptance first,” he added.

Fawna seemed to completely understand, nodding vigorously. “Of course, that makes perfect sense. I'll do my utmost to earn the honor!” she said, bowing vigorously.

Honor? Errr...I mean I guess I'm the King, but that's a little...Mac coughed. “I'm sure you will. Okay, first things first, I like to sleep in until the last possible moment before leaving, so wake me up right before we leave.”

“Of course! Sleep tight, sire,” Fawna said, giving another bow.

Mac nodded, crawling into bed.

Fawna pulled up a chair, sitting next to him and watching him.

Mac looked over. “Um...what are you doing...?”

Fawna seemed confused, “You asked me to wake you up right before we left.”

Mac blinked a few times. Guess I need to be clear with her. “Yes, but you need to sleep too,” he said, pointing to the servant bed in the corner of the room. “If you're too tired tomorrow, then you won't be able to do your job properly.”

Fawna looked as if he had just explained some wondrous knowledge to her. “Of course, I'll get right on it,” and hurried over to the bed, laying down and closing her eyes.

Mac sighed, Well, I guess this is fine. If the others like her, than...

In the morning, Fawna woke up. Momentarily confused, she quickly looked around and assessed the situation. Seeing Mac sleeping in the bed across the room, she smiled. I need to make sure I'm doing my job to the utmost!

Silently sliding out of bed, she quickly washed her face (and antlers) and packed up the few things Mac had lying about. As she was setting out clothes for him, a knock came at the door.

Fawna quickly looked between Mac and the door. Good, he didn't wake up, I don't think it's time to leave yet. Quietly prancing over to the door, she opened it just a crack.

Outside, Marie was standing outside. Seeing Fawna, she raised an eyebrow. “What...exactly are you doing?”

Fawna slid outside and quietly closed the door. “Sire said he wanted to sleep until right before we leave.”

Marie held her temples with one hand. “Okay, but what are you doing here? Did you sleep with Mac last night?” she asked. “Not that I'd have room to say anything...” she murmured after.

Fawna bowed. “No madame! I slept in a separate bed, and he didn't touch me at all,” Fawna explained, before blushing, “Well, um, expect when he caught me when Kelly and Fiona pushed me in...”

Marie paused for a moment after hearing that, putting together the probable course of events that transpired (which happened to be essentially the truth). “Well, that's fine, but I need to talk to him.”

Fawna started, “But, sire said...” but then stopped. Wait, she's one of his fiancee's, right? So I have to get her permission first, so I can't upset her...

Marie seemed slightly irritated, quivering slightly. “Are you going to tell me I can't see my fiance!?”

Fawna started shrinking, Errrghhhh, I don't know what...

She was saved, however, by the door behind her opening. Mac, rubbing his eyes, looked at the two of them. “Oh, hi, I thought I heard talking.”

Marie started to say something, but Mac gave her a peck on the lips, and whatever small anger Marie had seemed to dissipate.

“I'm...I'm so sorry...” Fawna said, bowing to both of them.

Mac seemed confused, while Marie just smiled and shook her head. “No, it's okay, I realize you were just doing what he told you. If anything, it's Mac's fault.”

Mac, still half-asleep, apologized, “Sorry, if one of my wives says anything that contradicts what I said, just listen to them. I can't go against them anyway.”

Marie blushed, leaning over and giving Mac another kiss, this time a bit deeper.

Fawna looked on, blushing but enthralled. Oooahhh, I hope he kisses me like that eventually...

Filled with renewed vigor, Fawna resolved herself to be the best maid she could be.

Side Stories

Girl's Night

During their stay at the inn on the way to the Gascon estate, for the first time, Melissandra had gotten all of them together at night. As she changed into her pajamas, she watched as the other eight were chatting.

“Ooooh, Fe, you're starting to show a bit more,” Emma said, rubbing Felicia's bare stomach as she was changing.

Felicia blushed a bit, “Yeah, she's coming along nicely.”

Emma raised an eyebrow, “You know it's a girl?”

Felicia nodded, “Rhea can tell.”

Rhea flew over, completely naked (and having already morphed into large form), “Haha, yeah, though I'll only tell you if you want to know.”

Eleanor, who was also showing quite a bit, pulled down Rhea and hugged her from behind, “I was so glad when you first told me!”

On one of the other beds, Charlotte was...poking Daisy's breasts. “How did you get them so big!?”

Daisy chuckled, “Haha, I dunno, they're about the same as me mum's, so that's probably where I get it from.”

Charlotte 'hmpf'd', “If that was the case mine shouldn't be like this,” she explained, looking down disappointingly at her near flat chest.

Kay, who was helping Melissandra put on her pajamas, chimed in, “I was like that too, but...” she leaned over and whispered in Charlotte's ear. Whatever she was saying was causing Charlotte to glow bright red.

Marie was sitting at the table, still in her pantsuit, looking over some papers.

“Marie, you should put that away,” Melissandra suggested with a bit of a threat behind her smile.

Marie looked over her glasses at Melissandra, then turned her papers over. “Sorry Mel, I just...”

Melissandra shook her head, before pulling Marie's top off.

Marie blushed, “Okay, okay, I'll come over...”

After Marie changed, all the girls were sitting on the beds, talking and giggling about whatever came to mind.

As Melissandra watched on, she smiled, We did good a job with the family. Well, so far...

A Date at the Festival

On the first day of the festival, La Hire had some free time, and since the maids weren't needed for anything at the moment, his fiances were available as well, so they were walking through the stalls together.

“Oh, oh, isn't this cute?” Kelly asked, grabbing a pink bow and holding it up to Fiona's hair.

La Hire nodded, causing Fiona to blush slightly.

Kelly smiled, “Get it, get it!”

La Hire grabbed it, “Alright. Which one do you want?”

Kelly laughed, “Nyahaha, you don't need to get me one.”

La Hire started to protest but Fiona stopped him, saying “Kelly, you know he doesn't want to show favoritism.”

Kelly blushed a bit. “Sorry...”

Fiona grabbed two small green bows, tying them one each side of Kelly's hair.

La Hire smiled, “Very cute.”

Kelly blushed again, before putting one arm around each of one to hide her embarrassment. “Come on, let's go get some food.”

As they were grabbing some rolls, they ran into Lord Gascon, who was accompanied by several of his cat-human partners.

La Hire gave him a bow as he walked up, “Lord Gascon.”

Lord Gascon smiled in reply, “Captain La Hire! I'm glad to see you and Kelly together. And this must be Lady Fiona.”

Fiona blushed slightly, “Erm, I'm not a Lady, just a commoner...”

Lord Gascon chuckled heartily, “Haha, but you will be once you're married.”

La Hire replied, “Thank you again for the marriage offer. The money will be a huge boon to our family.”

Lord Gascon nodded, “Of course, Kelly seemed so smitten with you, and I wasn't going to pass an opportunity to connect with the Captain of the Royal Guard...”

La Hire blushed slightly, looking over at Kelly, who was looking down at the ground, face red.

Lord Gascon's partners were giggling seeing this reaction, and Lord Gascon smiled, “Well, I won't keep you, please enjoy yourselves!”

A bit later, as they were watching some jugglers, Fiona leaned over and whispered in La Hire's ear, which caused La Hire to blush.

La Hire whispered back, “Are you sure? We...we haven't done that either.”

Fiona blushed slightly and nodded, “That's okay, we can later.”

La Hire gulped, before walking over and grabbing Kelly's hand.

Kelly seemed surprised at first, looking over his shoulder at Fiona, who smiled and made a hand motion to signify it was fine.

“Um, Kelly...”

Kelly blushed a bit, but looked at him.

“I...um...”

Kelly raised an eyebrow.

La Hire stopped stammering, thought for a moment, then leaned over and kissed Kelly on the lips.

Kelly immediately turned red, eyes darting side to side. “Um, La Hire, what about...” and looked over to Fiona again, but Fiona was no longer there.

“Please don't think you're a secondary wife just because it was arranged, okay? You're just as important to me as Fiona. And...um, honestly, I think we'd both be a bit lost without you,” La Hire stammered out.

Kelly blushed even deeper, “You idiot, I already knew that last part, nyahaha!” she laughed, before going back in for another kiss.