*All characters, except kids, are 19+. VOL 1. complete.*
Nineteen-year-old Dana never thought that when the three thousand-year war between her people and the demons ended, she and other fairies would be sent off to the demons as brides.
Not long af...
The temple had never been as lively as today. Not only were they hosting a new citizen, but every demon lord, both inner and outer, with a fairy wife, plus a Dark One, was also in attendance.
"We should do this more often," Ronwe said to Balthazar, the Head Priest.
"I couldn't agree more," Balthazar replied, drinking a goblet of wine. "I'd much rather host parties than perform last rites and funerals."
Everyone was out in the sunshine, enjoying the spread. Wine and fruit juice were more plentiful than the meats, breads, and sweets. Magical serving trays hovered between the guests; offering food or drink while others took empty cups or plates to the temple's kitchen.
*A/N: In chapter 5, Ronwe was the priest without a beard.*
Meanwhile, Dana, the new full citizen, was happily drinking booze for the first time in months.
"Pace yourself," Raoul said, taking away her third goblet; over her objections. "After being on the wagon for a while, your stomach might rebel against excess drinking."
"Kill joy," Dana muttered. She was wearing one of the new dresses Alma and the other wives bought for her.
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As much as she'd prefer casual clothing, she agreed to wear formal attire for this occasion; on the condition she leave the veil behind.
Grabbing a glass of fruit juice, she went to stand over by the pillars while Raoul mingled with his subordinates and spoke with a few other demon lords. His wives were talking with the other demon wives or watching their children. Looking out at the scene, she noticed that many of her fellow fairies had gathered in one corner, while the warriors were conversing among themselves in another corner.
The only fairies she didn't see were the five who were chosen by the local demon lords.
"I don't know about them, but my cousin is training with her husband right now," said a voice from behind her.
Dana, startled, spilled her glass of juice; nearly dropping it. She turned around and saw Callula, still wearing the armor she had on when they first arrived here, leaning against the same pillar.
"Excuse me," she said. "I did not mean to startle you." She turned fully to Dana and asked; "How have you been?"
After placing her empty glass on a passing server's try, she answered enthusiastically; "Savoring the freedom of no longer being monitored by the royal council day in and day out. Plus, I get to follow my passions to my heart's content. Not to mention finally reuniting with my foster father."
Dana was so happy with her life that she almost missed Callula's bitter tone.
"Lucky you." She took a drink from her wine goblet, arms folded, staring straight ahead.
"Are you okay, Callula?" Dana asked, truly worried.
"I've been better."
To fill the awkward silence, Dana asked; "What's the realm of a Dark One like?"
