The afternoon began with a problem.
Jax had been awake for several hours, and Nyxian hadn't stopped smiling.
Normally, that wasn't a problem.
Normally, it was one of his favorite things about her.
But this particular smile had a history of getting him into trouble.
"You're doing it again," he said.
Nyxian looked up from where she'd been watching him button his dress shirt.
"Doing what, beloved?"
"Smiling like you know something I don't."
"Oh, I know lots of things you don't."
"That's what worries me."
She laughed, crossed the room, and slipped her arms around his waist.
"Relax. Today is going to be wonderful."
"This morning you said that, and your mother practically tried to eat me for breakfast."
"She was only flirting."
"Your sister was helping."
"She's very supportive."
"Of your mother?"
"Of family."
Jax stared at her.
Nyxian's smile widened.
"You're enjoying this."
"Immensely."
He shook his head, but couldn't keep from smiling himself.
There was something different about her today.
Yesterday, beneath the flirting and jokes, he'd sensed an uneasiness she hadn't quite managed to hide. Her family's expectations had been hanging over her since they arrived.
Now they were gone.
The compatibility trial had been canceled. Her mother had accepted their marriage. And in three days, Nyxian would be his wife.
Not that Jax considered the ceremony necessary to make that true.
But it mattered to her.
And that made it matter to him.
"What's on the schedule?" she asked.
"Shopping."
Nyxian blinked.
"Shopping? In Moondrip?"
"Business shopping."
"Oh, that's even better."
"How is that better?"
"Because I get to watch you work."
Jax reached for his business jacket and tie.
"That usually isn't that particularly exciting for you."
"Trust me, beloved. It is."
She kissed him, then pulled away before he could return the favor.
"Come along. Mother's waiting."
"Your mother?"
"And Sera."
Jax stopped.
"Both of them?"
"Of course."
"Why?"
Nyxian took his hand.
"Because, darling, we're spending the day together as a family."
He considered that.
"Should I be worried?"
"Probably."
By the time they reached the main entrance, Lexi was already waiting.
In her human-sized form, the fairy looked perfectly at ease in a fitted traveling outfit, her hair arranged neatly and a small leather satchel resting against her hip.
She was reviewing a collection of notes.
Jax recognized the expression immediately.
It was the same one she wore when she was about to make someone a great deal of money.
Or relieve someone else of a substantial amount.
Sometimes both.
"Afternoon," he greeted.
"Good afternoon. I've reviewed what little information we have about Moondrip's businesses."
"Find anything interesting?"
"Several things. Mostly questions."
"Perfect."
Velmora stood nearby, elegantly dressed in deep violet, while Seralya wore a dark blue outfit that seemed designed to make the distinction between fashionable and scandalous largely irrelevant.
Both women watched Jax approach.
"You ready to show us what you can do, darling?" Velmora asked.
"Always."
Seralya laughed.
Nyxian slipped her arm through his.
Lexi didn't look up from her notes.
"Can we please conduct at least one business transaction before everyone starts flirting with him?"
"Certainly," Velmora replied.
She waited until Jax relaxed.
"After the first transaction, however, I make no promises."
Nyxian kissed his cheek.
"Let's go make some money."
Moondrip was not what Jax had expected.
The Nightveil estate was magnificent, with polished stone, elegant architecture, manicured grounds, and servants who seemed to anticipate every need.
The city beyond its gates was another matter.
Not terrible.
Not ruined.
But tired.
The streets were narrow, the buildings old, and many of the shops showed signs of repairs that had been postponed far too long.
Merchants displayed their goods beneath faded awnings. Children played between buildings while their parents worked. Laborers moved carts along streets where the paving stones had cracked decades earlier.
There was life everywhere.
But very little prosperity.
And the people themselves were fascinating.
Succubi and incubi were common, though their appearances varied considerably. Some possessed horns and tails, while others looked almost entirely human.
Most had natural skin tones, ranging from pale to dark, although Jax occasionally spotted the striking reds and purples he'd come to associate with certain demonfolk.
There were smaller horned imps, towering oni, gargoyle-like craftsmen, and several races Jax couldn't immediately identify.
One broad-shouldered merchant had stone-colored skin and four small horns.
Another woman possessed golden eyes, dark scales along her neck, and a tail that looked capable of breaking furniture.
Jax was fairly certain he'd seen someone with hooves carrying a basket of vegetables.
He decided not to stare.
What interested him more was how the city operated.
Women appeared to hold most positions of authority.
At one shop, an incubus carefully organized merchandise while his wife negotiated prices with customers.
At another, a female guild representative directed a team of male workers.
Velmora noticed him watching.
"Something unusual?"
"Just different from what I'm used to."
"Moondrip has always been governed primarily by women. Succubi tend to possess greater magical reserves and stronger natural abilities than incubi."
"Doesn't mean the men can't run businesses."
"Of course not. Many do. But most families follow the woman's leadership."
Seralya smiled.
"Our husbands even take our family names when we marry."
"Really?"
"Naturally."
Nyxian squeezed his arm.
"Which reminds me, beloved. We should probably tell Mother something later."
Jax glanced at her.
"Something good?"
"I think so. But my mother may not."
"What is it?"
"We'll talk later."
He decided that answer was sufficiently alarming.
They continued walking.
Jax noticed something else.
The farther they traveled from the wealthy central district, the more neglected the buildings became.
A row of crowded houses stood beside an abandoned warehouse. Farther down, several families appeared to share a building that had clearly seen better centuries.
"How many people live here?" he asked.
Velmora gave him an approximate figure.
"And what brings merchants into the city?"
"Trade, naturally."
"From where?"
She named several distant settlements.
"How often?"
"Not nearly as often as we'd prefer."
"Why?"
"Beasts. Bandits. Poor roads. Some routes become nearly impassable during certain seasons."
Jax nodded.
"And the city doesn't have enough customers to support much expansion."
Velmora studied him.
"That is a rather quick conclusion."
"Am I wrong?"
"No."
Lexi looked down the street.
"How much undeveloped land surrounds the city?"
"Quite a bit. Why?"
"Just curious."
Jax smiled.
Velmora noticed.
And for the first time that afternoon, she wondered whether she'd made a mistake assuming this would be an ordinary shopping excursion.
Their first stop was an herbalist.
Velmora introduced them to a middle-aged demonfolk woman named Marissa, who nearly dropped a jar when she recognized the Nightveil matriarch.
"Lady Nightveil! What a pleasure!"
"Marissa, darling. I'd like you to meet Jax Darquebane and Lexi."
Jax shook her hand.
"Nice to meet you."
"The pleasure is mine, sir."
"Mind if I ask a few questions?"
"Of course."
He began examining the shelves.
Some herbs were familiar.
Others weren't.
Several possessed magical properties that made Lexi immediately interested.
"Where do you get this one?" she asked, holding up a dried blue flower.
"From growers near the eastern marshes."
"How much can they produce?"
Marissa gave her an estimate.
"And how much do you sell?"
"Not nearly enough."
"Why?"
"There's only so much demand here."
Lexi glanced at Jax.
He was already smiling.
"Suppose you had customers in several other cities," he said. "Could your growers increase production?"
Marissa hesitated.
"Perhaps. But transportation..."
"Let's leave transportation aside for a moment. Could they grow more?"
"Yes."
"How much more?"
The conversation continued.
Within fifteen minutes, Jax understood her supply chain, her costs, her profit margins, and the limitations preventing her from expanding.
Within another ten, Lexi had outlined a preliminary distribution agreement.
Marissa stared at the figures.
"You could really purchase that much?"
"Assuming the quality remains consistent," Lexi replied. "And we'd need reliable delivery schedules."
Marissa nodded rapidly.
"Of course!"
"We'll also need to establish minimum quantities and acceptable substitutions."
"Anything!"
Lexi smiled.
"Not anything. We want an agreement that works for you."
Jax nodded.
"She gave up 70% of her store to hit the quota that Jax was willing to purchase."
Marissa offered them terms so favorable that Velmora nearly smiled.
Then Jax did something she hadn't expected.
He improved the woman's percentage. Jax accepted it at at 51% instead.
Velmora's smile vanished.
"Jax," she said quietly.
He glanced at her.
"Yes?"
"May I speak with you?"
"Of course."
She drew him a few steps aside.
"She offered you an excellent agreement."
"I know."
"And you just gave away part of your profit."
"Yep."
"Why?"
Jax looked back toward Marissa, who was listening intently as Lexi explained the delivery arrangements.
"Because I want her to make money."
"She was already making money."
"Today."
Velmora raised an eyebrow.
Jax continued.
"Suppose she realizes three years from now that she made a terrible deal. What happens?"
"She honors the contract."
"Probably. But does she work harder? Does she find better growers? Improve quality? Expand production?"
Velmora said nothing.
"Or does she do the bare minimum until she can get out of it?"
"Perhaps."
"I don't want someone trapped in a contract with me, Velmora. I want someone who looks at our partnership and thinks, 'If I grow, we both grow.'"
He glanced back at Marissa.
"People think winning a negotiation means dominating the other person. I think winning means both sides come out ahead."
Velmora folded her arms.
"An admirable sentiment. Not necessarily the most profitable."
"On one transaction? You're probably right."
He smiled.
"But I'm not planning for one transaction."
Velmora watched him return to the counter.
For a moment, she considered arguing.
Then she noticed Marissa's expression.
The woman wasn't merely relieved.
She was excited.
Already talking about new growers, better cultivation methods, and expanding her inventory.
Velmora frowned thoughtfully.
Perhaps there was something to his approach after all.
By the third herbalist, Lexi had taken over.
Jax stood nearby while she negotiated quantities, seasonal pricing, storage requirements, and distribution rights.
She was polite.
Friendly.
And absolutely relentless.
A merchant attempted to raise his price after realizing how much merchandise she intended to purchase.
Lexi smiled.
"Certainly. If you can guarantee the additional quantity and maintain the quality."
The merchant hesitated.
"Well, I can't guarantee..."
"Then let's keep the original price until you can."
He agreed.
A few minutes later, she had him proposing an expansion plan that would allow him to earn substantially more over the next year.
He practically thanked her for the opportunity.
Velmora watched the entire exchange.
Then she looked at Jax.
"Does she always do that?"
"Do what?"
"Make people grateful for agreements they were initially reluctant to accept."
Jax grinned.
"She's good, isn't she?"
"Very."
"Honestly, she's better at some of this than I am."
Velmora looked back at Lexi.
That was interesting.
A man as capable as Jax, openly acknowledging that one of his wives possessed skills exceeding his own.
And doing so with obvious pride.
Lexi finished the agreement, shook the merchant's hand, and turned toward the group.
"Done."
Nyxian immediately stepped forward.
"Come here, you magnificent little thing."
Lexi laughed as Nyxian pulled her into an embrace.
Then Nyxian kissed her.
Not a quick peck on the cheek.
A full, enthusiastic kiss that Lexi returned without the slightest hesitation.
When they separated, Lexi was smiling broadly.
"Well. I should close deals more often."
"Please do," Nyxian replied.
Jax chuckled.
"At this rate, I'm going to need a larger accounting department."
Velmora watched her daughter.
For a moment, the noise of the marketplace seemed to fade.
She remembered the arguments.
The years when Nyxian had insisted she wanted nothing to do with men.
Her refusal to consider the traditional relationships that Velmora had hoped she'd eventually embrace.
And the quiet fear Velmora had carried that her youngest daughter might never experience an imprint.
Succubi could love women.
Of course they could.
But imprinting required a compatible male partner, and Nyxian had seemingly closed that door forever.
Velmora had worried.
More than she'd ever admitted.
Yet here was her daughter, laughing in the arms of another woman, while the man she'd imprinted upon watched them with affection.
Nyxian hadn't abandoned anything that made her happy.
She'd simply found someone who accepted all of it.
Seralya touched her mother's arm.
"Mother?"
Velmora blinked.
"Yes?"
"You're smiling."
"Am I?"
Seralya followed her gaze.
Then she smiled too.
"She's happy."
Velmora watched Nyxian slip an arm around Lexi's waist before reaching for Jax's hand.
"Yes," she said softly.
"She truly is."
By midday, Jax had purchased a restaurant.
Not because he'd intended to.
At least, that was what he told everyone.
They'd stopped for lunch at a modest establishment near the market district.
The food was good.
The service was excellent.
The building was in desperate need of repairs.
And the owner was exhausted.
Jax asked a few questions.
Then several more.
By the time dessert arrived, he understood that the owner had been trying to retire for years but couldn't find anyone willing to purchase the establishment at a reasonable price.
"How much?" Jax asked.
The owner stared.
"How much what?"
"For the restaurant."
Nyxian started laughing.
Velmora closed her eyes.
Seralya leaned toward Lexi.
"Does he do this often?"
"More often than you'd think."
The owner named a price.
Jax considered it.
Then asked about the employees, equipment, outstanding debts, and suppliers.
Lexi reviewed the numbers.
They discussed repairs, renovations, and the possibility of retaining the existing staff.
An hour later, the restaurant had a new owner.
And its former owner had enough money to retire comfortably.
Jax shook her hand.
"Enjoy your retirement."
The woman looked as though she might cry.
"I don't know what to say."
"Say you'll come back for dinner sometime."
"Of course!"
"Good. First meal's on me."
As they stepped outside, Velmora stared at Jax.
"You purchased a restaurant."
"Yep."
"During lunch."
"Well, the food was good."
Nyxian laughed.
"Beloved, most people simply leave a tip."
"I did that too."
Seralya nearly doubled over.
Velmora shook her head.
But she was smiling.
And when Jax began discussing renovations with Lexi, that smile slowly changed.
He wasn't talking about replacing the staff.
He was discussing training, better equipment, improved storage, and recipes that could make the restaurant one of the most popular establishments in the district.
Lexi was already calculating costs.
They worked together almost effortlessly.
One identified the opportunity.
The other made it real.
Velmora found herself watching Jax longer than she'd intended.
There was something undeniably compelling about a man who could make decisions so confidently without becoming arrogant.
She understood ambition.
She'd built her life around it.
But this was something else.
Nyxian noticed her mother's expression.
"Oh, Mother."
Velmora glanced at her.
"What?"
"Nothing."
Her daughter's grin suggested otherwise.
"Absolutely nothing."
Their next stop was the Velvet Eclipse.
Jax had heard the name several times already.
He hadn't expected it to belong to Velmora.
The establishment occupied an impressive building near the wealthiest section of Moondrip.
Dark stone, polished windows, elegant balconies, and a grand entrance announced that this was not an ordinary tavern.
Inside, the atmosphere was luxurious.
Rich furnishings surrounded intimate seating areas. A stage occupied one end of the main hall, while private rooms and upper-level suites offered considerably more discretion.
Musicians were preparing for the evening.
The kitchen smelled wonderful.
And the staff greeted Velmora with unmistakable respect.
"Welcome to the Velvet Eclipse," she said proudly.
Jax looked around.
"Impressive."
"Thank you."
"What exactly do you offer?"
Seralya laughed.
Nyxian covered her mouth.
Velmora smiled.
"Fine dining. Entertainment. Private accommodations. Companionship. Whatever our distinguished guests require, within reason."
Jax looked toward the upper floors.
Looking over the balcony were dozens of Succubi in scantily clad clothing leaving very little to the imagination.
Then back at Velmora.
"Oh."
Nyxian leaned against him.
"Something wrong, beloved?"
"Nope."
"You're blushing."
"It's warm in here."
"Of course it is."
Velmora watched him with amusement.
"Relax, darling. You're quite safe."
Seralya smiled.
"Mostly."
Jax decided to inspect the kitchen.
It seemed safer.
And, to his relief, the kitchen was excellent.
The chefs were skilled, the equipment well maintained, and the ingredients of considerably higher quality than he'd encountered elsewhere in Moondrip.
But Jax saw opportunities immediately.
He discussed preparation techniques, preservation, and several dishes the chefs had never encountered.
Then he mentioned specialty drinks.
"Pixie Mead?" Velmora repeated.
"And Fairy Cider."
"Are they expensive?"
"Very."
"Good."
Jax blinked.
"Good?"
"My clientele doesn't come here looking for cheap drinks."
Lexi smiled.
"Then I think we should discuss a premium supply arrangement."
Velmora looked interested.
"How premium?"
"Limited quantities initially. Exclusive local distribution might be possible, depending on volume."
"Interesting."
"And we'll want to discuss presentation, serving standards, and pricing."
Velmora's eyes narrowed appreciatively.
"You really are quite good at this."
"Thank you."
"Have you ever considered managing an establishment like mine?"
Lexi smiled.
"I've considered hospitality."
"Then perhaps we should discuss an opportunity."
"Certainly. Although I suspect you'd find my ambitions rather expensive."
Velmora raised an eyebrow.
"How expensive?"
Lexi gestured toward the city beyond the windows.
"I'd rather discuss what we could do with the entire hospitality industry."
For several seconds, Velmora said nothing.
Then she laughed.
A genuine, delighted laugh.
"Oh, I like you."
Nyxian grinned.
"Mother, she's taken."
"Darling, I'm discussing business."
"Of course you are."
Jax, meanwhile, was examining the kitchen's storage arrangements.
He had no idea what he'd just started.
The afternoon became considerably more expensive.
Jax visited warehouses.
Then more warehouses.
He asked about ownership, leases, storage capacity, and access to the major roads.
Lexi began marking locations on a map.
Velmora supplied introductions.
Seralya identified several owners who might be willing to sell.
Nyxian followed closely, occasionally offering observations and frequently distracting Jax whenever her mother seemed to be enjoying his company a little too much.
By the time they finished, Jax had secured several warehouse properties in different districts.
Velmora studied the map.
"Why so many?"
"Distribution."
"Of what?"
"Eventually? Almost anything."
She looked at the locations.
"You've spread them across the entire city."
"That's the idea."
"Why not simply purchase one large warehouse?"
"Because goods need to reach customers."
Lexi tapped the map.
"These locations allow us to serve different districts without moving everything through the central market."
"And later," Jax added, "we can improve transportation between them."
He didn't mention portals.
Not yet.
There was no reason to explain infrastructure that Moondrip wasn't ready to understand.
But he knew exactly where he wanted those future connections.
Then he started asking about land.
Velmora became even more interested.
"Land?"
"Yes."
"Where?"
"Near the outer districts."
"Why?"
"Expansion."
She studied him.
"You're planning to build?"
"Eventually."
"What?"
"Housing. Warehouses. Workshops. Depends on what the city needs."
They visited several neglected residential districts.
Jax saw cramped buildings, deteriorating roofs, and families living in conditions that could be improved considerably.
He asked about property ownership.
Construction costs.
Available materials.
Local labor.
Then he looked beyond the city toward the undeveloped land surrounding it.
Lexi followed his gaze.
"You're thinking about the outskirts."
"Yep."
"Cheaper land."
"More room."
"And future expansion."
"Exactly."
Velmora listened.
The man had purchased a restaurant, negotiated multiple supply agreements, secured warehouses, and was now evaluating entire residential districts.
All in one afternoon.
And somehow, he was still smiling.
"Jax," she said.
"Yes?"
"How much money are you planning to spend in Moondrip?"
He considered the question.
"Depends."
"On?"
"How much opportunity I find."
Seralya laughed.
Velmora didn't.
She was watching him.
Closely.
"You're not simply buying businesses."
"No."
"You're planning something."
Jax looked around at the crowded streets.
"Your people work hard, Velmora. They've got skills. They've got products. But they don't have enough customers, and getting goods in or out costs too much."
"That has always been our problem."
"Then maybe it's time somebody fixed it."
Velmora felt a small thrill at the casual certainty in his voice.
Not because he'd promised something impossible.
Because he spoke as though the problem were merely waiting for someone willing to solve it.
And she was beginning to believe he could.
They returned to the Nightveil estate shortly before sunset.
Jax was discussing the restaurant renovations with Lexi when the front doors opened.
A servant hurried into the entrance hall.
"Lady Nightveil! Lord Rikard and Lord Josric have returned!"
Velmora stopped.
"Already?"
"They arrived just moments ago, my lady."
Seralya smiled.
"They're early."
Nyxian froze.
For the first time all day, she wasn't smiling mischievously.
"Father?"
A familiar voice answered from the doorway.
"Nyxian?"
She turned.
A tall, impeccably dressed incubus stood beside a younger-looking gentleman carrying a traveling case.
The older man's features were refined, his expression gentle, and his dark hair showed the faintest trace of silver near his temples.
His small horns barely protruded through his neatly styled black hair.
He looked tired from travel.
Until he saw his youngest daughter.
Then his entire face lit up.
"Nyxian!"
"DAD!"
She ran.
Not walked.
Not hurried.
Ran.
And launched herself into his arms.
Rikard barely managed to set down his bag before catching her.
"My little girl!"
Nyxian wrapped her arms around his neck.
"I missed you!"
"Oh, sweetheart. I've missed you too."
He held her tightly, laughing as she buried her face against his shoulder.
"Look at you. You're beautiful."
"Dad."
"Are you eating properly? Are you well? Do you need anything?"
She laughed.
"I'm fine!"
"Money? Clothes? A carriage? Anything at all?"
"Father!"
"Whatever you need, sweetheart. Just ask."
Velmora folded her arms.
"Rikard."
He looked up.
"Yes, darling?"
"She's been home a day now."
"Oh."
"And she's doing perfectly well."
"Of course she is."
He turned back to Nyxian.
"But if you need anything..."
"RIKARD."
"Yes, dear."
Jax watched the exchange with a growing smile.
So this was Nyxian's father.
And suddenly, quite a few things about her made sense.
Rikard finally set his daughter down.
Then immediately took her hands.
"Tell me everything."
Nyxian smiled.
"Well, Dad, I'm getting married."
Rikard blinked.
Then his smile returned.
"Wonderful!"
"To a human."
"Really? Is it that Jax guy? Who already has five wives?"
A pause.
"Yes. Is that ok?"
Rikard considered that.
"Well..."
Nyxian waited.
"Are you happy, sweetheart?"
"Very."
"Then I'm happy."
She hugged him again.
Jax heard Velmora sigh.
"Of course you are."
Rikard looked toward Jax.
"And this must be the fortunate gentleman."
Jax stepped forward.
"Jax Darquebane, sir. It's a pleasure to meet you."
Rikard shook his hand warmly.
"Rikard Nightveil. And please, call me Rikard. Any man who makes my daughter smile like that is welcome in my home."
Nyxian beamed.
Seralya approached Josric, greeting her husband with an affectionate embrace.
Josric was a reserved, handsome incubus with a quiet manner and thoughtful eyes.
He kissed his wife and asked about her day.
"Interesting," she replied.
"Good interesting?"
"Oh, very."
Her smile made him look mildly concerned.
Jax suspected that was a common occurrence in this family.
Dinner was a celebration.
Llandra, Bunny, Zee, and Pixelle had joined them, filling the Nightveil dining room with conversation, laughter, and the unmistakable energy that followed the Darquebane family wherever they went.
Jax had arranged with the household cooks to prepare dragon steak, using the same low-temperature cooking techniques he'd introduced elsewhere.
The meat had been prepared slowly, seasoned with herbs, and finished with a sear that filled the dining room with an incredible aroma.
Rikard stared at his plate.
"Dragon?"
"Yep."
"Actual dragon?"
"Actual dragon."
"Good heavens."
Josric examined his portion.
"Where does one purchase dragon meat?"
Jax smiled.
"Usually, you don't."
Nyxian laughed.
"Beloved, perhaps we shouldn't discuss how you acquire your ingredients during dinner."
"Fair point."
The first bites brought the conversation to a temporary halt.
Rikard closed his eyes.
"Extraordinary."
Velmora nodded.
"I believe my chefs will be demanding lessons."
"Happy to help."
"Careful, darling. I may hold you to that."
Nyxian smiled.
"Mother, he's already married."
"I meant cooking lessons."
"Of course you did."
Jax concentrated on his steak.
It seemed the safest option.
Eventually, Rikard set down his fork.
"Nyxian, sweetheart, there's something I wanted to ask."
"Yes, Father?"
He glanced toward Velmora.
Then hesitated.
"The compatibility ritual..."
The table grew quieter.
"Will it be necessary?"
Velmora regarded him for a moment.
Then smiled gently.
"No, sweetheart. That won't be necessary this time."
A small breath escaped Rikard.
"Good."
He picked up his glass.
Nothing more was said.
But Jax noticed.
So did Nyxian.
She reached beneath the table and squeezed her father's hand.
Rikard smiled at her.
And the conversation moved on.
A little later, Nyxian cleared her throat.
"Mother. Father. There's something else."
Velmora looked up.
"Yes, darling?"
"When Jax and I marry, I'll be taking his name."
Silence.
Velmora slowly lowered her glass.
"His name?"
"Yes."
"Nyxian, women don't take their husbands' names."
"Usually."
"Certainly not in the Nightveil family."
Nyxian smiled.
"Then I suppose I'll be the first."
Velmora looked toward Jax.
"Did you ask her to do this?"
Jax shook his head.
"No. That was her decision, that I'm hearing about for the first time. I've never asked anyone to take my unusual last name."
"I love your last name," Bunny protested.
"Then why?" Vel continued.
Nyxian leaned against him.
"Because I want to be Nyxian Darquebane."
Velmora studied her daughter.
"People will talk."
"Mother, people have been talking about me since I learned to walk."
Seralya laughed.
"She's not wrong."
Velmora sighed.
"Your family name carries considerable influence."
"And it always will."
Nyxian's expression softened.
"But I've chosen my future. And I want his name to be part of it."
Rikard smiled.
"Is that what you want, sweetheart?"
"Yes, Father."
"Then Darquebane is a lovely name."
Velmora stared at him.
"Rikard."
"What?"
"You're not going to say anything?"
"I just did, darling."
She'd spent years worrying about Nyxian's future.
Her youngest daughter had rejected the expectations of their society, refused the relationships Velmora believed she needed, and eventually left home rather than surrender her independence.
And now she'd returned.
Happy.
In love.
Imprinted.
Velmora and Seralya had never experienced an imprint themselves, despite loving their husbands.
It was an extraordinarily rare bond.
Velmora had recognized it the moment she'd seen Nyxian reunited with Jax.
The trial had never truly been necessary after that.
She looked at her daughter.
Then at the man beside her.
"Very well," she said.
Nyxian blinked.
"Very well?"
"If Darquebane is the name you want, I won't stand in your way."
Nyxian smiled.
"Thank you, Mother."
Velmora raised a finger.
"But I reserve the right to complain about it."
"Naturally."
"Frequently."
"I'd expect nothing less."
After dinner, Jax rose.
"Actually, there's something I've been waiting to do."
Velmora looked interested.
"Oh?"
"I brought gifts."
Nyxian turned toward him.
"You did?"
"For your parents."
He retrieved a long case he'd brought from Solmere.
It was crafted from dark polished wood with elegant metal fittings.
He placed it between Velmora and Rikard.
"I wanted to wait until you were both here."
Rikard looked surprised.
"For us?"
"Of course."
Velmora opened the case for both of them.
Inside rested two magnificent blades.
The blades were dark, almost black, with subtle violet patterns running through the metal.
Its hilt was beautifully balanced, and the accompanying sheath was a masterpiece of craftsmanship, decorated with intricate silverwork and polished fittings.
For several moments, neither spoke.
Then Velmora carefully lifted hers.
"Jax..."
"Our friend Brannic forged them. Our other friend Merriweather handled the enchantments."
Rikard examined the sheath.
"Extraordinary workmanship."
"They're made primarily from materials recovered from a B-ranked Demon Bat, combined with other beast materials through transmutation."
Velmora looked up sharply.
"Combined?"
"Yep."
"Different beast properties?"
"Exactly."
Her expression changed.
"That's extraordinarily difficult."
"That's what Merriweather said."
Jax grinned.
"Brannic said it was impossible until Merriweather told him he couldn't do it."
Nyxian laughed.
"That sounds about right."
Jax continued.
"The blades are designed specifically for demonkin. Their enchantments won't function properly for other races."
He explained the first property.
"While carrying one, your natural mana recovery doubles."
Rikard blinked.
"Twice as fast?"
"Yep."
Velmora studied the blade more closely.
"That alone would make this extremely valuable."
"There's more."
He explained Echo Sense, a defensive enchantment derived from the Demon Bat's natural ability to detect movement.
"Short range, but useful if something approaches in darkness or tries to sneak up on you."
Josric leaned forward.
"Remarkable."
"Then there's temperature resistance."
Jax described how Brannic and Merriweather had combined materials from heat-resistant and cold-resistant beasts.
"Hot weather feels considerably cooler. Cold weather feels warmer. It won't protect you from standing in a furnace or walking through a blizzard without precautions, but ordinary temperature extremes become much easier to tolerate."
Velmora stared at him.
"You've combined opposing elemental properties into one weapon."
"That's the idea."
"Most enchanters would struggle to stabilize even one."
"Merriweather's pretty good."
Nyxian snorted.
"That's an understatement."
Rikard carefully returned the blade to its sheath.
"This is an extraordinary gift, Jax."
"There's one last ability."
Velmora looked up.
"Another?"
"Yep. Physical endurance."
Seralya immediately became interested.
Jax continued, completely unaware.
"If you wear or carry the blade for six hours, you can activate an enchantment that doubles your physical endurance for one hour. Once per day."
Rikard nodded thoughtfully.
"That would be useful during difficult journeys."
"Exactly."
Velmora slowly turned toward her husband.
"Oh, sweetheart."
Rikard looked at her.
"Yes, darling?"
"I believe you'll be wearing that knife quite frequently."
Seralya made a strangled noise.
Nyxian immediately burst into laughter.
Jax looked between them.
"What?"
Velmora smiled sweetly.
"Nothing, darling. I'm simply considering its practical applications."
"Right. Travel. Combat. That sort of thing."
"Among others."
Nyxian was laughing so hard she had to lean against Lexi.
Jax sighed.
"I walked right into that."
"Yes, beloved," Nyxian managed.
"Yes, you did."
Rikard, meanwhile, was still examining his new knife.
"I think I'll begin wearing it tomorrow."
Velmora's smile widened.
"An excellent idea, sweetheart."
Josric suddenly became very interested in his wine.
Jax decided the less he understood about this conversation, the better.
Later, the discussion turned toward business.
Rikard and Josric explained that they'd been trying to establish a trading company independent of Velmora's holdings.
They wanted to help local merchants reach larger markets.
They'd purchased goods, arranged shipments, and negotiated with suppliers.
Unfortunately, their profits had been disappointing.
Velmora sighed.
"Disappointing is a generous description."
Rikard smiled apologetically.
"We've had some difficulties."
"Sweetheart, you've created a charity."
"Well, the customers seem pleased."
"Of course they're pleased. You're practically paying them to shop here."
Josric cleared his throat.
"We didn't want to burden anyone."
"And now you've burdened yourselves."
Jax listened without interrupting.
Then he asked to see their figures.
Rikard hesitated.
"Now?"
"Why not?"
A servant retrieved their records.
Lexi moved her chair closer.
Within minutes, both were examining purchase prices, transportation expenses, storage fees, and sales figures.
Jax pointed to one transaction.
"Why did you agree to this price?"
"The supplier was struggling," Rikard explained.
"Okay. And what did you sell it for?"
Rikard told him.
Jax looked at Lexi.
She looked back.
Neither said anything.
Velmora folded her arms.
"Go ahead. Tell them."
Jax smiled.
"You're losing money."
"We know," Josric admitted.
"No, I mean you're losing money before you even account for your time."
Rikard looked miserable.
Jax leaned back.
"Look, helping people is admirable. But if your business fails, you won't be helping anyone."
Rikard nodded.
"I suppose that's true."
"And you don't have to take advantage of people to make a profit."
Velmora raised an eyebrow.
"Here we go again."
Jax grinned.
"You're going to love this."
"I'm reserving judgment."
He turned back to Rikard.
"Let's say you have a supplier who's struggling. Instead of paying more than the goods are worth, what if you guarantee a certain purchase volume over the next year?"
Rikard considered that.
"They'd have reliable income."
"Exactly. And what could you ask for in return?"
"A better price?"
"Now we're talking."
Lexi pointed to another figure.
"And if you consolidate shipments from several suppliers, you could reduce transportation expenses."
Josric leaned forward.
"By how much?"
"Potentially quite a bit. We'd need better figures."
Jax nodded.
"And if you establish district warehouses, you reduce how far merchandise needs to travel after it reaches the city."
Velmora slowly looked up.
"District warehouses."
Jax smiled.
"Funny you should mention those."
Lexi opened her satchel.
And produced a map.
Velmora stared at it.
Then at Jax.
"You are already trying to make a deal on your purchases."
"I mean, when opportunities arise."
"You just purchased those warehouses."
"Well..."
"Jax."
"I'll give you the family discount."
Seralya laughed.
"Are you sure he's not your long lost son, Mom?"
"Well, I'm adopting him, if he doesn't become my son-in-law."
Rikard looked astonished. He hadn't thought of all of this before.
Josric began examining the map. He realized he had been looking at their business venture all wrong.
And Jax continued explaining.
For the next hour, the four of them discussed pricing, logistics, suppliers, storage, and the possibility of expanding their trading company.
Velmora listened.
At first, she offered corrections.
Then suggestions.
Then questions.
And gradually, she began to understand something.
Jax and Lexi weren't simply better negotiators.
They approached business differently.
They identified what people needed.
Then helped those people recognize opportunities they hadn't considered.
By the time an agreement was proposed, the other party often wanted it more than they did.
And somehow, everyone still benefited.
Velmora glanced toward her husband.
Rikard was listening intently, asking questions, and beginning to understand how his company could become profitable without abandoning the compassion that had motivated him to start it.
Josric was already reconsidering several existing agreements.
Seralya watched them with an expression Velmora recognized.
The same thought had occurred to both women.
This is how they should have been doing business all along.
Velmora turned toward Jax.
He was explaining another opportunity, gesturing toward the map while Lexi supplied the numbers.
Confident.
Relaxed.
Completely in control of the discussion without ever demanding control of the people around him.
For just a moment, Velmora forgot what she'd intended to say.
Then Nyxian leaned close.
"Mother?"
Velmora blinked.
"Yes, darling?"
"Enjoying yourself?"
"Very much."
Nyxian smiled.
"I thought you might."
Eventually, Rikard set down his notes.
"Jax, may I ask you something?"
"Of course."
"Why are you doing all this?"
Jax looked puzzled.
"Doing what?"
"Helping us. Investing in Moondrip. Offering advice."
"Because I see opportunities."
"But you have businesses elsewhere. Surely you don't need another city to worry about."
Jax smiled.
"Maybe not."
He glanced toward Nyxian.
"But this is her home."
Nyxian's expression softened.
"And if we're going to be family, I'd like to see it do well."
Rikard looked at his daughter.
Then back at Jax.
"You're an extraordinary young man."
Jax shrugged.
"Just trying to make a few good deals."
Velmora laughed quietly.
"A few?"
Lexi began gathering the papers.
"We've barely started."
Seralya stared at her.
"You're serious?"
"Completely."
Velmora leaned back in her chair.
For years, she'd been the most successful merchant in Moondrip.
She'd built the Velvet Eclipse into an institution, accumulated wealth, and secured influence that few others could rival.
She'd always considered herself ambitious.
Now she was beginning to wonder whether she'd simply been thinking too small.
Jax looked toward the windows.
Beyond the estate, the lights of Moondrip flickered against the evening sky.
"Beautiful city," he said.
Velmora smiled.
"Thank you."
"Talented people. Good businesses. Plenty of opportunity."
"But?" she asked.
Jax glanced at her.
"You're isolated."
She nodded slowly.
"Yes."
"That's your biggest problem. Not your people. Not their abilities. They just don't have access to enough customers."
"And what would you suggest?"
"First, improve the businesses you've already got. Better storage. Better distribution. Better housing. Give people more opportunities to earn."
Lexi nodded.
"And make sure those opportunities are sustainable."
"Exactly."
Rikard looked thoughtful.
"And after that?"
Jax smiled.
"Then we figure out how to connect Moondrip to the rest of the world."
Velmora studied him.
"And you believe that's possible?"
"I wouldn't be spending money here if I didn't."
For a moment, nobody spoke.
Then Nyxian slipped into Jax's lap and wrapped her arms around his neck.
"Well, Father?"
Rikard smiled.
"Yes, sweetheart?"
"What do you think of my future husband?"
He looked at Jax.
Then at the map covered in notes, the business records, and the two magnificent large knives resting nearby.
Finally, he laughed.
"I think you've made a wonderful choice."
Nyxian kissed Jax.
"I know."
Velmora shook her head, smiling.
"And I suppose the wedding is next."
Nyxian sat up.
"Actually, Mother, I've decided where I want it."
"Oh?"
"The Nightveil Gardens."
Rikard's expression brightened.
"The gardens?"
Nyxian nodded.
"By the fountain."
Her father laughed.
"Oh, sweetheart. Do you remember when you were little and jumped into that fountain without a stitch of clothing?"
Jax slowly turned toward her.
Nyxian grinned.
"I was hot."
"You frightened the gardeners half to death," Rikard continued.
"They were being dramatic."
"You refused to come out."
"Because Mother was going to punish me."
Velmora sighed.
"You were supposed to be attending a formal family gathering."
"I was bored."
"You took off your dress in front of three visiting nobles."
"They shouldn't have been standing there."
Jax covered his face.
"How old were you? Six? Eight?"
Rikard chuckled.
"She was fourteen."
Nyxian kissed his cheek.
"I guess wanting to be naked in public, never really goes away."
Seralya gasped.
"Excuse me?"
Nyxian smiled sweetly.
"Be sure to announce yourself, if you ever visit our home."
"Oh."
Seralya considered that.
"Fair enough."
Velmora looked toward Jax.
"Are you certain you know what you're marrying into?"
Jax lowered his hands.
He looked at Nyxian.
"I will complain very little if she strips down naked and jumps into a fountain."
Then he smiled back.
"Pretty sure."
Nyxian kissed him again.
Velmora watched them for a moment.
Then she looked toward Rikard, who was happily discussing wedding arrangements with his youngest daughter.
Her gaze drifted to the blades.
Then to the business records.
Then back to Jax.
She'd spent years believing that no one could offer Nyxian a better future than the one waiting for her at home.
It appeared she'd been wrong.
And for once, Velmora Nightveil didn't particularly mind.
Because the most remarkable deal made in Moondrip that day hadn't involved a restaurant, a warehouse, or a single gold coin.
It was the one her daughter had made.
And judging by the look on Nyxian's face, she intended to enjoy the benefits for the rest of her life.