Supreme Spouse System.

Chapter 102: Velvet Night and feast.

Velvet Night and feast.

The darkness of the night sky yawned wide and deep over them, an infinite sea of black ink-smooth velvet studded with flashing stars. Two moons lay low in the sky, sending a gentle silver and pearly light over the earth. There was one full moon, one bright, and another thin crescent moon, like a soft silver smile. Between these two shining bodies, the night spread out its dark blanket softly, shrouding the world in soft shadows and silent mystery.

Under this starry sky, the silhouettes of five people glided with subdued beauty along the thick forest. A Black-haired, handsome man was at the forefront — his beauty so potent that even the gods may blush to see him. His golden eyes glimmered with mirth; his black robe he donned was embroidered with streaks of gold, and it caught starlight with each deliberate step. His face still held a faint flush from the hot spring, a delicate pink sheen dusting his collarbone and cheeks.

Four women trailed behind him, each of them giving off a beauty that was otherworldly and unique. He is Leon.

Hanging bravely on his right arm was Syra, her emerald-green locks hanging over her shoulders, wet hair clinging to her radiating skin glimmering dimly in the moon. Her golden dress hugged her figure, and a lovely smile sat on her face as her eyes sparkling with cheerful boldness. She clung to Leon’s with totally unafraid to express her affection.

By their side strode Aria and Cynthia—graceful, poised, but no less enticing. Aria’s long purple locks shone in the moon’s light; her purple eyes calm as always. Her body held with elegant poise, a gentle smile on her lips. Cynthia, as serene, with black hair and eyes that reflected midnight, donned a white and blue gown that sparkled like frost under the stars.

By their side, Kyra strode in quiet silence. Syra’s twin, green hair, green-eyes the same hue but her nature much more reserved. And she stood in a darker green dress. Her head tilted slightly down, her cheeks still flushed with the warm spring... and what had happened there. Her fingers twitched occasionally at her sides, recalling the brazenness she had there in the bath—gentle kisses, shaking caresses—and now... now she was shy.

Leon glanced over his shoulder, giving her a playful smile. ”You’ve grown quieter again, Kyra.”

Her eyes flickered up to him, a blush deepening on her cheeks. ”I... I’m fine, Leon.” But her voice was softer, like dew on grass.

The air still retained the warmth, and the soft whiff of steam wafted from their slightly wet hair and flushed skin. They had exited the hot springs, where the warmth of warm water penetrated deep into their muscles, releasing tension and igniting a flame that still lingered in their eyes.

Leon’s characteristic smiling curve found her lips, eyes shining with subdued contentment.

When Leon glanced back at Kyra, catching the way she shyly tucked a strand of damp hair behind her ear, an amused smile tugged at his lips. Her eyes flicked up to meet his for the briefest second, then darted away as a blush blossomed across her cheeks.

”You’ve grown quiet again, Kyra,” he said with a teasing tone, his voice like a breeze that stirred still waters.

”I... I’m fine, Lord,” she replied, barely above a whisper. Her voice was soft—like dew on grass at dawn.

Leon chuckled lightly at her comment, joined by the others who shared knowing smiles at her flustered reply. Kyra’s blush only deepened, and she turned away slightly, flustered by her own timid response.

And then Syra, always the fierce spark among them, clamped her fingers harder around Leon’s and leaned against him, her bare shoulder touching his. ”Told you the hot springs were the way to go,” she said with a mischievous wink. ”Nothing like a little warmth to get the soul revved up... and possibly some other things, too.”

Leon shook his head in amusement, but he didn’t release her.

Aria, her expression calm and serene, added with a soft smile, ”It’s more than warmth. It’s peace. As if the springs rinse away not just the day’s weariness—but all the noise inside.”

Cynthia, always poised, breathed in slowly. ”The scent of the herbs still clings to us. It’s soothing... almost intoxicating, like we’ve stepped into a dream.”

Leon smiled at their words and silently nodded, soaking up their presence. Their happiness, their warmth—it was a salve to his heart.

Their course took them from the trees and into a large, open meadow. The night air here was cool and greeted them with a soft breeze, ruffling the grass at their feet. For a moment, they stopped, drinking in the view before them.

Before them was the half-established camp, now completely changed. Instead of wandering tents and hastily erected wooden huts. Two tall poles stood guard at the entrance, clumsily cut wood hitched in wild vines. Though hastily constructed, the frame was strong and functional, with speedy dismantling in mind. The camp was in stark contrast to the surrounding forest of nature — wild and unbreakable.

Leon’s keen eyes detected the weak Light glowed within the camp, throwing warm lights against the dark, and a thread of wispy smoke streamed up from the side of the camp, suggesting that fires burned for heat or on the fire for cooking. A flash of shock coursed through his features, echoed in the women’s faces.

”Looks like they’re really work hard,” Leon spoke softly, his tone serene but laced with curiosity.

As they proceeded, the two silver-armored guards on duty at the camp gate bowed graciously. Leon and his company responded with soft nods and gentle smiles. The same two guards who escorted them to and from the hot spring relieved each other at the posts, bowing now before standing back in position.

Leon simply nodded silently to them, then guided his women further into the camp.

Within the camp, the change was astonishing. Captain Black’s touch and guidance was to be seen everywhere — neatly pitched tents, wooden platforms built to support the yielding ground, and torches that lined the pathways with a golden, unflinching light that chased the shadows of night away.

”This place... it’s amazing,” Cynthia breathed softly, her eyes wide as she took in the thronged camp. ”From wild forest to this tidy haven — the contrast is incredible.”

”Everything is in its place,” Aria continued. ”I wasn’t expecting such organization.”

”See that large tent in the center,” Syra exclaimed eagerly. ”That must be ours!”

Leon’s eyes fell upon the middle of the camp, where a gigantic tent stood tall. The material was blue and white, flowing delicately with the night wind. The tent’s enormity spoke volumes — its grandeur suggesting the stature of its owner.

Leon grinned. ”No doubt. Let’s see what Black has in store for us.”

Leon smiled, the glint of amusement in his golden eyes. ”No doubt. Let’s take a look at what Black has planned for us.”

The women nodded along with him, keeping his pace while they walked towards the center of the tent. Along the way, several guards greeted them with respectful salutations, bending their heads as Leon walked by. Some had baskets full of fresh fruit, others jugs of clear water, and some carried ropes and tools, ready for the coming days.

Leon nodded to each of them, his warm smile never wavering. The camp was alive, a tiny, but integral outpost throbbing with contained energy.

In the center of it all, the opulent tent was a wonder. Its blue and white panels, embroidered with silver thread, glowed softly in the torchlight. Outside the door, a sleek black, mirror-polished dining table stood, lengthy and thin.

A few guards kept themselves occupied setting out chairs, arranging fruit baskets and water pitchers on the table, and setting out cutlery with careful attention. The warm scent of hot bread, roasted vegetables, and juicy meat wafted through the air — an intoxicating mixture that awakened the senses and piqued appetite.

Leon breathed in deeply, a low rumble of laughter escaping. ”This banquet smells like a promise of something epic.”

Syra grinned, eyes sparkling. ”If it tastes half as good as it smells, I’m in for a treat.”

Cynthia and Aria shared a quiet smile, their calm presence grounding the group.

As they neared the table, the guards working paused as noticed their arrival and immediately bowed mid-task, bowing deeply in unison to greet, ”Lord Leon... Ladies...”

Leon waved a hand with a smile. ”Continue what you’re doing.”

with a nod, his tone soft but authoritative. ”Keep at it.”

The guards bowed once more and went about their work, leaving the final details for the feast.

As Leon prepared for entry into the tent, a voice rang out behind him.

”Lord.”

He turned to find Captain Black hurrying towards him — more a speedy sprint than a walk. His black armor shone; his face stern but respectful.

He braked just short of running into them, beads of sweat appearing on his brow.

”I-I beg your pardon, my lord! I did not notice you coming—”

Leon held up a hand peacefully. ”It’s okay, Black. Lift your head.”

Black raised his head, his eyes locking with Leon’s. ”Thank you, Lord.”

Leon inquired, ”Is the dinner prepared?”

Black nodded. ”Yes, Lord. All is set. We only need your presence to proceed.”

Leon’s playful smile came back. ”Then let’s not keep the food in the waiting. Come, my beauties.”

The women nodded as a group; eyes shining with eagerness.

As they took their places at the dining table, Leon occupied the place of honor. On his left were Aria, then Cynthia; on his right, Syra, and beside her, Kyra. The guards brought trays of food with a gentle presentation — a variety of roasted meats, fresh vegetables, and fragrant breads.

A guard poured their cups full with a rich red wine, its fragrant floral scent dancing on the air like a gentle melody.

At Black’s motion, guards came forward with silver trays—roasted vegetables shining with oil, flabby bread with crunchy edges, and lastly, the pièce de résistance: a shiny metal tray borne by four guards. On it rested the roasted flesh of the Earthhide Dreadmaw, a Master Realm creature Leon had gone hunting himself several hours ago.

The meat was deep brown, shining with juices, its scent a concerto of smoky, savory depth.

Syra’s eyes sparkled with delight, whispering to Kyra, ”We’re properly fed tonight.”

Kyra simply nodded; her usual reserve softened by the festive atmosphere.

Black signaled the serving to begin. A guard sliced the meat into thick, juicy pieces and plated them neatly before each of the five seats. Another poured deep red floral wine into their cups—its scent rich, sweet, and calming.

Leon picked up his fork and knife, cutting a bite-sized morsel. He chewed carefully, golden eyes lighting up in enjoyment.

Leon grasped his fork and knife, cut into the meat, and bit down. His eyes sparkled. ”Mmm... so good. Soft, juicy... wonderfully seasoned.”

The women did the same, their faces curious as they sampled the soft, juicy meat. Aria whispered, ”So tender. the flavors are heavenly.”

Cynthia nodded. ”Perfectly done. The texture is otherworldly.”

”Melts in my mouth,” Syra replied, eyes sparkling.

”Warm... and satisfying,” Kyra put in, voice gentle but genuine.

Leon laughed quietly.

From beside Captain Black, standing a respectful distance, alert but unobtrusive. Look his lord and ladies to the delight of enjoying the food with a smile on his lip a genuine and satisfying smile come naturally.

The balance of the meal was spent in easy conversation and chuckles. They ripped bread, broke pieces, sipped wine, and leaned against each other’s heat.

Although they consumed only half, the remainder portions were still large enough the remainder for the guards and Captain Black.

With the final sips of wine consumed, Leon wiped his lips with a towel provided by a guard, chuckling contentedly.

”Tonight, I actually relished my dinner,” he declared, voice dripping with contentment.

The women nodded assent.

”Mmmh,” Syra smiled. ”But I’m hungry. for a different type of nourishment.”

Leon smiled, sensing the twinkle in all their eyes. They were not only full—they were hungry.

Leon rose to his feet with smile. ”Then, let us return to our tent and sleep, my lovelies.”

They trailed behind him, all with quiet smiles and flushed cheeks, yet a spark lit within each woman’s eyes.

He approached Captain Black, who stood waiting for them to leave.

”My lord, was everything to your satisfaction?” asked Black.

”My lord, was everything to your satisfaction?”

Leon nodded. ”Well beyond. And tell me—is it really you who prepared the Dreadmaw?”

Black nodded, ”Yes, my lord.”

Leon grinned. ”Praise to your talent, Black.”

Syra giggled, ”You’re more than just a warrior, Captain. You’re a secret chef!”

Black bowed, a fleeting smile gracing his face. ”Thank you, Lady Syra... but I only attempt my best.”

Aria chimed in from aside, ”Captain, don’t be shy. You’re actually a great cook!”

Leon nodded in accord. ”Yes, Black. Accept your accolades graciously, Black. Talent is borne out of hard work, after all.”

Black bowed modestly. ”Thank you, Lord. Your words mean a lot.

Leon moved toward the tent. ”I bid you adieu now. You and your men get rest, but do not get too caught up in the feast. Tomorrow, we must rise early.”

”Certainly, Lord,” Black said. ”We shall be ready.”

Black bowed once more to greet. ”Goodnight, my lord... my ladies.”

”Goodnight,” they echoed, going into the tent.

Within, it was a chamber of soft luxury—soft carpets on earth, warm spheres of light, a large bed, and low tables. It was warm, cozy, and secluded.

A snap of his fingers set a potent barrier about the tent—soundproof, sightproof, immune to outside interference.

A devilish grin pulled at his lips as he turned to his women. ”Now... my darlings, let us sleep.”

They smiled back, promise shining in their eyes.

And with the stars looking down and the double moons moving through the heavens, Leon and his lady vanished under soft covers, their evening—soft giggles, gentle breaths, and whispered vows hanging behind them like stardust.

Tomorrow, they would travel on. But this evening... the heat of passion would surround them.