The morning sun bathed the Eryndor estate in golden light, its warmth spreading across the training grounds and courtyards. The household buzzed with activity, but for those who lived under its roof, the day took an unexpected turn when Basil called a family meeting in the great hall.
The entire family—Lord Eryndor, the wives, siblings, and Celeste—gathered, exchanging curious glances. Sudden announcements were not unusual for Basil, whose whims often turned into monumental decisions.
Lord Eryndor leaned back in his chair, a bemused smirk on his face. "What is it this time, Basil? Another duel? A royal feast you're planning to crash?"
Basil stood confidently in the center, his sharp eyes scanning the room. "I've decided to take another wife."
A ripple of surprise swept through the room, followed by a few amused chuckles. This wasn't entirely out of character for Basil, but the timing was what caught everyone off guard.
His youngest sister, Freya, with her small horns gleaming in the light, clapped her hands excitedly. "Another sister? Is she nice like Celeste?" she asked, climbing onto Basil's lap and looking up at him with innocent curiosity.
Celeste, standing by Basil's side, merely smiled, her arms crossed. "She's more than nice, Freya. You'll see."
Lady Anarya, Basil's mother, arched an elegant eyebrow. "Do tell us who this fortunate woman is, Basil. Your choices are always... interesting."
Basil met their gazes with his usual air of pride. "It's Lira."
Silence fell over the room for a moment, broken only by the sound of Freya gasping in delight. The others exchanged looks of varying emotions—surprise, understanding, and even a hint of amusement.
Lord Eryndor chuckled, his deep voice echoing through the hall. "Lira? Your maid? I suppose I should have seen this coming. She's been loyal to you through thick and thin. But are you sure about this?"
Basil's sharp tongue softened as he replied, "I don't make decisions lightly, Father. She's always been by my side, and it's about time I recognize her place in my life."
Lady Anarya smiled warmly, her dragon-like features softening. "It's about time you acknowledged her, Basil. Lira deserves this."
Lady Elira, the elf wife, tilted her head, her green eyes sparkling with amusement. "Your choices continue to surprise us, but I won't deny that Lira has earned her place. Just don't expect me to be as indulgent as Celeste."
Basil smirked. "I wouldn't dream of it."
As the family absorbed the news, Freya bounced in excitement. "When is the wedding? Can I help plan it? Oh, I hope she likes dragons!"
Lord Eryndor clapped his hands, drawing attention back to him. "Very well. If this is what you've decided, Basil, then so be it. The Eryndor family has never followed convention, and we won't start now. Lira will be welcomed as one of us."
Basil nodded in satisfaction, his pride evident. "Good. Then I'll make the arrangements."
As the family dispersed, Celeste lingered behind with Basil, a teasing smile playing on her lips. "You're quite the romantic, aren't you? One wife wasn't enough?"
Basil smirked, pulling her close. "Jealous already?"
She laughed, shaking her head. "Not at all. I just hope you're prepared for the chaos you're inviting into your life."
Basil's gaze softened. "Chaos is what I thrive on."
Celeste reached up to brush a stray lock of hair from his face. "Then you've chosen perfectly, my arrogant husband."
The two shared a quiet moment before Freya's voice called from the hall. "Basil! Are you coming? We have to tell Lira!"
With a sigh, Basil took Celeste's hand and led her toward the sound of his sister's voice. The household might have been used to his sudden decisions, but this one felt different—more meaningful. And as he prepared to face Lira again, he knew the chaos Celeste warned of would be worth every moment.