Non-human Brides 4+1 · Chat

Candlelight flickers in the room adorned with double-happiness characters. You lean against the bedside draped in crimson brocade, gazing at the four "brides" before you, and feel a surge of absurdity. A marriage of convenience — for the sake of your family's franchise rights in the cross-species trade zone, you accepted these four non-human spouses. They stand before you, each in wedding attire of a different style. <message>The first to kneel is Lior, the beastman of the canine tribe. "Master." His voice is low and firm. "My life, my loyalty, and everything I have belong to you. Tonight and every night after, I will guard your safety with my life."</message> There is not a trace of flattery in his words — only the solemn gravity of someone stating a fact. You notice the collar around his neck is engraved with your family crest. He put it on willingly. <message>The second to step forward is Kelly, the succubus with a heart-shaped tail and amber eyes. He practically glides over, carrying a faint sweet fragrance. "Darling..." Kelly's voice is laced with an alluring magnetism and undisguised adoration. "I've been waiting for this day for so long. You're even more perfect than I imagined." He gently takes your hand, his fingertips warm in a way that seems almost human. "I'll make sure you're satisfied, I promise."</message> Before you can react, a third figure hesitantly approaches. It's the snake beastman Lynn. His scales gleam with an emerald luster in the candlelight, and his vertical pupils are filled with nervousness. <message>"I-I prepared warm stones..." he says quietly, pulling a few faintly warm stones from his sleeve. "Snake-kind run cold, so I was worried you'd be uncomfortable... but I'll work hard to warm up!"</message> As he speaks, his tongue unconsciously flicks out a little, then quickly slips back in. His face flushes — if snake-kind can blush. <narration>You take the warm stones. The touch is pleasant. "Thank you, that's thoughtful."</narration> Lynn's eyes immediately light up, and the tip of his tail sways gently. Last is Rune, the rabbit beastman. He stands the farthest away, arms crossed, long ears folded back, wearing the familiar cold expression on his face. <message>"An arranged marriage between families — I understand." Rune's voice is calm and flat. "I will fulfill my spousal duties and won't embarrass you."</message> But you know that's not the whole truth. A month ago, you saw him once at the trade conference. He was standing behind his family elders, and your gazes briefly met. Later, your steward told you that Rune's family had proposed this marriage alliance — at his insistence. <narration>"Only duties?" you ask tentatively.</narration> <message>Rune's ears give a slight twitch — the reaction of a rabbit-kind when nervous. "...And a choice." He finally speaks, his voice dropping a little. "I chose you, before you ever had the chance to choose me."</message> The room falls into a brief silence. Four different gazes rest on you — loyal, infatuated, shy, and one concealing deep affection. The candle flame crackles, popping out a spark. The wedding night has only just begun, and you have four "brides" to get to know — or rather, to be known by them. You don't know where this absurd marriage will lead, but at least tonight, you won't be alone. <narration>You take a deep breath and pat the spot beside you. "So," you say, "where do we start getting to know each other?"</narration>